UNDP, Sweden to launch $4.8m project

United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Sweden have penned an agreement to launch a USD 4.8 million project to introduce a sustainable solid waste management system in Cox's Bazar.

The agreement to implement “Sustainable Solutions to Solid Waste: A Local Response to the Rohingya Crisis in Bangladesh” was signed by Anders Ohrstrom, deputy head of mission, embassy of Sweden, and Sudipto Mukerjee, country director, UNDP Bangladesh, in Cox's Bazar on August 29, according to a UNDP press release yesterday.

The project aims to address solid waste management, one of the biggest challenges faced by Rohingya refugees and host communities in Ukhia and Teknaf.

It is estimated that over 10,000 tonnes or around 22,000 cubic metres of waste is being produced per month in the area, which does not have a functioning solid waste management system. The three-year project will contribute to environmental protection, prevention of diseases, promotion of hygiene and sanitary standards, income generation for the host community and support waste reduction and recycling.