Effectiveness of Managing Hazardous Waste Generation in Leather Tanning Industry in Sri Lanka

Abstract

The leather tanning industry in Sri Lanka is currently localized within the Western Province, Colombo and Gampaha Districts which based on the river banks and becoming significant causes of environmental pollution. The paper has done on primary data by industrial visits, interviews and sample collection and secondary data obtained by CEA, ILTF & industrial reports , journals and other literature. This study assesses the current waste management practices, identifying potential factors of pollution and Strength, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threat ( SWOT) analysis for current waste management facilities in leather tanning industries in the country. The study finds that current waste management practices are not comply with the environmental regulations and legal framework which are imposed by CEA and other relevant authorities. Accordingly leather tanneries discharge their untreated waste water to the surface water bodies and wet lands. Furthermore they dispose Hazardous Solid Waste such as Wet blue off cuts, used chemicals and contaminated containers at unsecured open dump site. With the SWOT analysis, this study discusses strengths and weaknesses within the industry and opportunities and threats which are effect to the industry from outside.