Formalization of Plastic Recycling Value Chain by forming Recycling Business Units in Bangladesh (under the PLEASE Project)
Project Start Date: September 2023
Project End Date: July 2025
Plastic value chain in Bangladesh is plagued by exploitation, unsafe working conditions and inefficiencies driven by multiple layers of middlemen, untracked cash transactions, unfair pricing and fragmented collection systems. Informal waste pickers (IWPs), who form the backbone of the sector, are often underpaid, unrecognized and exposed to hazardous working environments. BPCL, under the PLEASE Project- implemented by the South Asia Co-operative Environment Programme, supported by the World Bank, and with implementation support from UNOPS, is addressing these systemic challenges through two core innovations: first, by introducing Recycling Business Units (RBUs) that directly collect from waste pickers eliminating intermediaries and ensuring fairer income; and second, by developing an app based supply chain tracking system with integrated digital payments to enhance transparency, traceability and financial inclusion.
ESMP
In alignment with the World Bank’s Environmental and Social Standards, BPCL has developed site-specific Environmental and Social Management Plans (ESMPs) for each RBU to ensure sustainable and compliant operations. Access the full documents below-
Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) for Feni RBU
Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) for Rupganj RBU
Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) for Shiddhirganj RBU
Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) for Cox’s Bazar RBU
Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) for Bogura RBU
