2nd Life Pakistan 3.0

Practical solutions for packaging that is hard to recover

Cycle 3 supports individual innovators, startups, SMEs, collection and recycling businesses, technology providers, manufacturers, universities, research teams and partnerships between organisations across Pakistan working on solutions for multilayer packaging, flexible packaging and other low-value plastics.
Deadline: December, 11th 2026

The packaging challenge

Small, lightweight packs can be costly to collect and sort. Bonded layers can be difficult to separate or reprocess.

Multilayer packaging

Packs made from bonded layers, such as plastic films or plastic and foil.

Flexible packaging

Packs that bend easily, including sachets, wrappers, pouches and films.

Other low-value plastics

Plastics with limited resale value after use, such as some mixed films.

A sachet can be both flexible and multilayered.

Five solution areas

Your solution can address one or more of these areas.

  1. Packaging design

    Use less material while protecting the product.

  2. Material alternatives

    Reduce or replace conventional plastic.

  3. Collection and separation

    Improve recovery and sorting.

  4. Recycling and end use

    Find practical uses for recovered materials.

  5. Traceability

    Track what is collected and where it goes.

Who can apply?

Innovators, businesses, research teams and partnerships in Pakistan with an existing solution or preliminary evidence.

What selected teams receive

Specialist mentorship to strengthen technical evidence, the business case, operations or pilot readiness.

  1. Apply and screen
  2. Assess and shortlist
  3. Develop solutions
  4. National Final

Frequently asked questions

Who can apply?

Individual innovators, startups, SMEs, collection and recycling businesses, technology providers, manufacturers, universities, research teams and partnerships between organisations working on solutions relevant to Pakistan.

Can I apply from outside Karachi?

Yes. Applications are welcome from across Pakistan.

Can I apply if I only have an idea?

An idea alone is insufficient. If you are at concept stage, show documented technical groundwork backed by preliminary evidence or testing.

Does my solution need to be on the market already?

No. A prototype, technical test, small trial, early customer use or working service model can help demonstrate what you have developed so far.

What kinds of plastics does Cycle 3 focus on?

The focus is multilayer packaging, flexible packaging such as sachets, wrappers and pouches, and other low-value plastics in Pakistan.

Can my solution cover more than one area?

Yes. Explain which areas it addresses and how it helps solve the packaging or plastics challenge.

Can I apply with a partner?

Yes. Explain each partner’s role and what resources or expertise they will contribute.