The World’s First Recycling Solution of Its Kind: Bidyanondo’s Rickshaw Bin

Bidyanondo designed the Rickshaw Bin in the aesthetic of rickshaw art and attached them to the backs of rickshaws. This was done to combat Dhaka’s plastic pollution which keeps getting worse. There had been multiple attempts to install more bins by Dhaka City Corporation but most of them tend to disappear. Recently, as high as 80% of 15,000 bins installed under an initiative were stolen. This leads to people littering all over the city.

On the other hand, Dhaka has over a million rickshaws including the unregistered vehicles. Since the rickshaw pullers could double as security personnel, the problem of theft was resolved. And the availability of rickshaws let people dispose plastic in a more convenient manner.

Bidyanondo at first held events whereby rickshaw pullers were invited and informed about the initiative. The bins were then attached to their vehicles. Finally, the rickshaw pullers were connected to local recycling stores, enabling them to sell the collected plastic at fair prices. These stores then facilitated the recycling process by selling the plastic to recycling factories.

The Rickshaw Bin project has the potential to significantly reduce plastic pollution in Dhaka. By capitalizing on the accessibility and extensive reach of rickshaws, citizens are actively contributing to a cleaner environment while the rickshaw pullers generate extra income to support their families.

Bidyanondo's visionary approach to waste management exemplifies the power of innovation and community engagement. As plastic pollution diminishes, Dhaka takes a step towards a cleaner and more sustainable future. The success of this initiative sets an inspiring example for cities worldwide, showcasing the transformative impact that localized efforts can have on the environment and the well-being of communities.