Plastic Pollution and the Right to a Clean and Healthy Environment: A Case Study of People Living in Squatter Settlements Along the Riversides of Kathmandu City, Nepal

Abstract

Our planet is facing a global plastics crisis. Every living species throughout every ecosystem on the planet is detrimentally affected by plastic pollution. However, people in vulnerable situations and living in poverty are disproportionately affected by plastic waste and its implication on their lives and full enjoyment of human rights. Although Nepal has strict laws regarding plastic and environmental protection, their implementation is lacking. In addition, the waste management system is weak, and there is a lack of general awareness. Throughout Kathmandu City, plastics leak into rivers or are dumped on their banks, especially affecting people living in these areas. In this context, this research project seeks to study the right to a clean and healthy environment of the people living in squatter settlements along the riversides of Kathmandu City with a focus on environmental justice. Furthermore, this research identifies policy and practical measures of the government of Nepal regarding plastic pollution and their applicability and efficiency. Through qualitative tools such as in-depth and key informant interviews with people living in squatter settlements, as well as different stakeholders such as lawyers, judges, scholars, and government officials, this research draws out a holistic approach to the general discussion of plastic pollution and the right to a clean and healthy environment by including different perspectives. Therefore, this study contributes significantly, on the one hand, to examine the situation of the squatters of Kathmandu City (rights-holders) and, on the other hand, to identify the obligations and needed assistance (capacity and resources) of the government (duty bearer) to fulfil their commitments in regard to safeguarding the right to a clean and healthy environment as guaranteed by the Constitution of Nepal.