Salako Pata Tapari Gasera
Bheta Bho Maya
Jama Dada Katera
This beautiful song by Uma Ghale Gurung is a childhood memory. The song roughly translates to “while stitching leaves of the Shorea robusta (sal tree), I met my love… let’s go cross the hills (with the lover).
The song echoes in my mind every time I touch the tapari. Living in the UK, you might think I’m romanticizing tapari and sal leaves, but I use tapari more than most Nepalis in Kathmandu. It’s available in the market in the UK and it’s getting popular.
A UK-based company with partners in Nepal and India is marketing sal leaves (‘sal ko tapari’) in the UK. Tapari Limited, established in 2017, states that the production of tapari products takes place in Nepal where the collection of leaves and work in the factory provide employment to women in poor villages with no other work opportunities. Production of tapari supports more than 1,000 families in the region.
Traditionally, tapari is made by stitching several leaves of the Shorea robusta (sal tree) together with fine bamboo sticks. It has the highest potential for replacing non-degradable plastic plates, thereby helping to mitigate plastic pollution. These days it is made by machine. Sal leaves plates are often referred to as tapari if it is big, medium-sized leaves plates are called bota, and smaller size leaves plates are called duna.
They are mostly made from sal leaves but in Pokhara they are also made from Hazelnut tree leaves. Sal leaves have long been an integral part of Hindu mythology, Nepali culture, and Ayurvedic tradition. Beyond their cultural significance, sal leaves have a plethora of benefits ranging from health to environmental sustainability, making them an invaluable resource with export potential to Europe, America, and the Western world.
Sal leaves are a sustainable alternative to plastic and Styrofoam disposable plates. Unlike single-use plastics that contribute to pollution and take centuries to decompose, sal leaves are biodegradable and easily compostable. Choosing sal leaf plates helps reduce the carbon footprint associated with plastic production and disposal.
Sal trees are abundant in Nepal and neighboring regions. Harvesting sal leaves doesn’t harm the tree as they are naturally shed, making it a renewable resource. This sustainable practice can help conserve forests and promote biodiversity.
The production of sal leaf plates involves minimal processing and energy use, resulting in a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to plastic or paper plate manufacturing. This eco-friendly approach aligns with global efforts to combat climate change.
Sal leaves have been cherished in Ayurveda for their therapeutic properties. They are known for their antibacterial, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant qualities. Sal leaf-based remedies are used to treat a wide range of health issues, from wounds and burns to skin disorders and digestive problems.
Sal leaf plates are chemical-free and don’t leach harmful substances into food, unlike some plastic and foam alternatives. This makes them a healthier choice for serving food, particularly in eco-conscious regions like Europe and America.
With growing global awareness of environmental issues and a shift toward sustainable living, the demand for eco-friendly products is on the rise. Sal leaf plates align perfectly with this trend.
Sal leaf plates also offer a touch of authentic Nepali culture and tradition. They can be marketed as unique, handcrafted items that bring a piece of Nepal to foreign shores, appealing to those interested in global cuisines and traditions.
As countries around the world implement stricter regulations on single-use plastics, sal leaf plates provide an alternative that is not only sustainable but also compliant with emerging environmental standards.
In the pursuit of harnessing the potential of sal leaves as a sustainable solution, it’s crucial to emphasize responsible harvesting practices. Sustainable collection methods, such as selectively plucking naturally fallen leaves, can ensure the continued health of sal trees and local ecosystems.
Collaborative efforts between local communities, governments, and environmental organizations can help implement sustainable management practices. Initiatives to protect sal forests and promote reforestation can safeguard these valuable resources for future generations.
Encouraging local communities to engage in sal leaf collection and processing can provide economic opportunities. By establishing fair trade practices and supporting small-scale artisans, Nepal can ensure that the benefits of sal leaf exports are distributed equitably.
Raising awareness about the environmental and cultural significance of sal leaves can garner support both locally and internationally. Educational programs can inform consumers about the benefits of choosing sal leaf products, driving demand, and supporting sustainable practices.
The power of sal leaves extends far beyond their cultural and medicinal significance. Through sustainable harvesting, innovative marketing, and a commitment to environmental responsibility, Nepal can not only export Sal leaf products to the Western world but also contribute to a global shift towards a more sustainable and eco-conscious future.
Sal leaves, deeply rooted in Nepali culture and Ayurvedic traditions, offer a sustainable solution to the environmental challenges posed by plastic waste. With their natural health benefits and minimal carbon footprint, sal leaf plates have the potential to make a positive impact on global efforts to combat climate change and promote eco-friendly living.
The author is a UK-based R&D chef
