In a bold step towards combating plastic pollution and fostering sustainable plastic waste management practices, RedOrange Limited has launched a series of initiatives in collaboration with national and international organisations. From signing critical agreements to training grassroots waste pickers, RedOrange is paving the way for a cleaner and more environmentally conscious Bangladesh.
Collaborative Efforts to Combat Plastic Pollution
On January 16, 2025, RedOrange Limited entered into a landmark agreement with the Arannayk Foundation and the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS). The agreement, aimed at reducing plastic pollution, focuses on the installation of plastic interception barriers in the Kallyanpur Canal, a significant waterway in Dhaka prone to plastic waste accumulation.
The signing ceremony saw the presence of key stakeholders from both organisations. Representing UNOPS were Md. Obaidul Islam, Project Manager. The Arannayk Foundation was represented by Rakibul Hasan Mukul, Executive Director, along with a senior management team of Arannyk Foundation. Mr. Arnob Chakrabarty, Managing Director, signed the agreement on behalf of Red Orange.
This initiative signifies a proactive approach to addressing urban environmental challenges, aiming not only to reduce plastic waste but also to enhance public awareness and community engagement in environmental conservation efforts.
Strengthening Technical Expertise through Academic Partnerships
Continuing its commitment to sustainable infrastructure and environmental resilience, RedOrange Limited signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Centre for Smart Infrastructure Resilience and Sustainability (CSIRS) at United International University (UIU) on January 22, 2025. This partnership focuses on technical collaboration for designing plastic barriers, site selection, and coordination with the Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC).
The MoU signing ceremony, held at the UIU campus, was graced by Prof. Dr. Md. Abul Kashem Mia, Vice Chancellor of UIU, as the Chief Guest. Other notable attendees included Prof. Dr. Md. Mujibur Rahman (Director of CSIRS and Department of Civil Engineering), Arnob Chakrabarty (Managing Director of RedOrange Limited), Alok Kumar Majumder (Director of Programs and Operations at RedOrange), and Dr. Rumana Afrin (Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Civil Engineering, UIU).
This partnership will explore opportunities for funding and implementing innovative projects focused on WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), climate change, and Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM). Both organisations will collaborate on designing technical solutions such as floating barriers to reduce flooding and improve waste management while also enhancing the plastic economy in urban areas.
Empowering Waste Pickers through Capacity Development
Recognising the critical role of waste pickers in the recycling ecosystem, RedOrange Limited conducted a two-day capacity development training for 40 waste pickers on January 25 and 28, 2025, at Solna Convention Hall in Dhaka Uddan. Supported by SACEP, UNOPS, and World Bank funding, the training sessions focused on enhancing skills in waste collection, sorting, and recycling while addressing broader environmental and social challenges.
The representatives from Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) also participated in these training sessions and encouraged waste workers to continue their work to combat plastic pollution. DNCC representatives emphasised the transformative impact of waste pickers on urban waste management. The DNCC representatives expressed their full support for this work.
Arnob Chakrabarty, Managing Director of RedOrange, introduced the Please Project, highlighting the indispensable role of waste pickers in maintaining the city’s waste management systems.
Mr. Al Mamun, a recycling company owner, discussed partnerships in the plastic value chain and their role in promoting a circular economy. He expressed his firm commitment to support the waste workers and sorting centre owners to support the circular economy.
One of the participants, Md. Tota Islam, shared his experience: “This training is my first, and I’ve learnt about new plastics, the recycling chain, and better communication channels. It’s opened my eyes to how valuable our work really is.”
The training sessions not only provided practical skills but also empowered waste pickers with knowledge about safety practices, gender equality, and the economic value of plastics in the recycling market.
A Holistic Approach to Sustainability
Through these strategic partnerships and grassroots initiatives, RedOrange Limited is taking a holistic approach to environmental sustainability. By integrating technical solutions, academic expertise, and community engagement, the organization is setting a benchmark for comprehensive, sustainable development practices in Bangladesh.
As these projects continue to evolve, they promise to create lasting impacts—reducing plastic pollution, fostering innovation in waste management, and empowering those at the forefront of the recycling industry.
