On July 31, 2025, the Rural Self-reliance Development Centre (RSDC) participated in the Migration, Environment, and Climate Change (MECC) Mela 2025 by hosting an informative stall focused on community-based waste management. The event, organized by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Nepal, took place at the Ashok Party Venue in Patan, Lalitpur.

RSDC showcased its innovative waste management model, implemented through social mobilization in Budhanilkantha Municipality, Ward No. 2. The stall featured educational posters, publications, materials on plastic waste management, and a specially designed “snake and ladder” game to illustrate key project activities. Members of RSDC’s project team, center staff, and representatives from the local cooperative engaged with visitors to share insights and discuss the potential for replicating the model in other communities.

The MECC Mela aimed to raise awareness about the interconnectedness of climate change, environmental degradation, and migration, particularly in vulnerable communities. The event featured exhibition stalls, documentary screenings, a public “Commitment Wall” for climate pledges, participatory games, and local food stalls.

The Mela was attended by a wide range of participants, including former Deputy Prime Minister Bamdev Gautam, Lalitpur Metropolitan City Mayor Chiribabu Maharjan, provincial assembly members, local government representatives, professors, students, and community members.

Alongside RSDC, several other organizations such as WWF-Nepal, LI-BIRD, IDRC, SmartPani, PRC, and others displayed their work in the areas of environmental conservation, sustainable development, and climate resilience. The event served as a collaborative platform for sharing community-driven solutions to climate and migration challenges in Nepal.