Plastic Waste Management in Sri Lanka: The Issues in Operationalizing the Management Practices with Local Authorities

Abstract

The rapid urbanization and economic growth of Sri Lanka have led to an increase in plastic consumption, particularly in the Western Province, where nearly 60% of the country’s solid waste is generated (JICA, 2016). The Colombo Municipal Council alone collects approximately 700-800 metric tons of solid waste daily, while other urban councils in the Metro Colombo Region, such as Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia, Kolonnawa, Sri Jayawardenapura Kotte, and Moratuwa, collect an additional 350-400 metric tons per day (JICA, 2016). This high rate of waste generation is compounded by the widespread use of single-use plastics, including straws, yoghurt cups, PET bottles, lunch sheets, milk packets, and polythene bags. A recent brand audit by the Centre for Environmental Justice (CEJ) revealed that multinational corporations such as Coca-Cola, Unilever, and Nestlé contribute significantly to Sri Lanka’s plastic pollution, although local brands also play a substantial role (CEJ, 2021).