The first morning in Taiwan, I stepped into a hall buzzing with energy from delegates across Asia and beyond. Colourful stalls lined the space, each telling a story of innovation, sustainability, and collaboration. I realised immediately that this was more than an expo. It was a gathering of ideas that could shape the future of the circular economy in the world. Seeing so many innovative startups under one roof, different but with a common goal and a single purpose, made me hopeful that I was not alone in this mission of making the earth a better place. For a moment, I felt both excited and nervous. Here I was, representing Nepal and Eco Sathi Nepal, among dozens of businesses and initiatives, many far larger and more established than ours.
From October 20 to 27, I participated in a week-long program on the circular economy in Taiwan. The first part of the program was the Asia-Pacific Circular Economy Roundtable, held from October 20 to 23, which brought together representatives from ministries, industries, and organisations worldwide. This was followed by the Circular Cross Expo, hosted by Jenny Lai, where circular businesses and initiatives shared ideas, solutions, and products with attendees from across the region.
This journey began with an invitation from Jenny Lai. She works in the circular economy space in Taiwan and is part of a larger network focused on circular solutions. When she invited me, I hesitated. I wondered if the invitation came from kindness rather than intention. But I decided to go.
In Taiwan, I stayed with Jenny, who was generous to have me stay at her house, alongside delegates from Indonesia and Thailand. Sharing daily routines and meals allowed for informal conversations that were just as valuable as the formal sessions.
The first program was a highly interactive and informative roundtable discussion. During the roundtable discussions, Taiwan’s recycling system stood out. It was organised, disciplined, and deeply integrated into everyday life. The panels covered best practices, policies, and innovations that illustrated how a strong circular economy system could operate efficiently.
At the Circular Cross Expo, I represented Eco Sathi Nepal. I had spent months preparing for this, from arranging logistics to designing a stall that highlighted storytelling rather than promotion alone. During the Circular Cross Expo, I represented Eco Sathi Nepal. I had been preparing for this for months. I brought products from Nepal and designed a stall that focused on storytelling. The backdrop featured mountains, reflecting the everyday life and natural beauty of Nepal. I wanted people to see Nepal, not just my brand. I brought Eco Sathi products to demonstrate how our work supports advocacy and encourages responsible consumption.
The days were long. From morning until late at night. It rained almost constantly. Inside the expo hall, there was warmth. Nepali students studying in Taipei came forward to help without being asked. They supported the stall, explained our work, and stood proudly beside me. By the end, every product had sold out. I was exhausted, but deeply grateful.
Several interactions at the expo were particularly memorable. One moment during the expo stayed with me. A delegate from Vietnam became emotional while listening to our story. She told me she had assumed Nepal was far behind. Seeing Eco Sathi’s work challenged that belief. That moment reminded me how powerful representation can be.
Another moment touched me even more deeply. A young girl told me she wanted to study environmental engineering after our conversation. I felt a quiet sense of fulfilment. Inspiring someone to take this path felt more meaningful than any recognition.
Participating in the Circular Cross Expo also highlighted gaps and challenges for Nepal. I was the only business representative from Nepal, despite knowing there are many initiatives in the country.
Circular economy remains a concept that is not widely understood, and basic practices such as waste segregation are still limited. We have the practice in our roots, but rarely implemented and often forgotten. An example is that providing segregated bins is not costly, but consistent political commitment, public education, and civic accountability are often lacking. Discussions with international stakeholders reinforced the need for collaboration among government, industry, and communities to advance circular economy practices in Nepal.
Reflecting on this experience, I feel both hopeful and responsible. Eco Sathi Nepal’s work resonated internationally, yet meaningful progress at home requires broader participation, awareness, and sustained action. Travel matters to me. Being exposed to different systems helps me learn and reflect more honestly about home.
This experience would not have been possible without the steady work behind the scenes. I am deeply grateful to my team at Eco Sathi Nepal, Swarnima Shrestha, Anusuya Piya, Rojan Risal, and Pramesh Bhattrai, for their support throughout this journey from the start. Their work made it possible for me to show up fully and represent Nepal with confidence.
Returning from Taiwan, I carried a clearer sense of responsibility. Eco Sathi Nepal’s work resonated beyond borders, but real progress at home depends on how consistently we act on what we already know. The circular economy in Nepal will not grow through isolated moments or symbolic participation. It will grow when awareness becomes practice, policies and commitments that help us care for the environment, and when responsibility is shared among all of us.
