Sri Lanka's Battle Against Plastic Pollution Intensifies
The heart-wrenching sight of revered elephants and other wildlife consuming plastic waste has spurred Sri Lankan politicians to strengthen pollution laws. With an estimated 20 elephant deaths and numerous other animals perishing due to single-use plastics over the past decade, authorities are preparing to enforce a new law banning many such items. Plastic bags, bottles, and packaging have not only harmed wildlife but also caused drainage blockages, urban flooding, and a surge in dengue cases.
Anil Jasinghe, the country's top environment official, emphasized the need to raise awareness about responsible plastic usage. The forthcoming regulations will prohibit the sale of various single-use plastic items, including cutlery, cups, drinking straws, and plastic flower garlands. However, this is not the first attempt by Sri Lanka to address the issue. Previous bans on super-thin plastic bags, food wrapping, and plastic shopping bags have been openly flouted, highlighting the challenge of implementation.
Manufacturers have often evaded the rules by slightly altering the products or increasing their volume just above the legal minimum. Furthermore, the country's economic crisis has contributed to a trash pile-up, as a fuel shortage hampers waste processing. Sri Lanka recycles a mere 3% of its plastic consumption, well below the global average of 7.2%. Plastic bottles, although not included in the ban, could be recycled more efficiently if the refuse collection system improves.
Amidst these challenges, efforts are being made to tackle plastic pollution. Eco Spindles, the largest plastic bottle recycler in the country, aims to process more bottles if the collection rate improves. The company transforms throwaway plastic bottles into polythene yarn, which is used by renowned international clothing brands. However, haphazard disposal remains a significant issue, with single-use plastics comprising nearly 15% of urban waste.
Sri Lanka, with a population of 22 million, generates over 1.5 million tons of plastic waste annually, with half of it ending up in canals, rivers, and ultimately the Indian Ocean. Addressing plastic pollution is crucial not only for environmental preservation but also for public health. The rapid spread of dengue fever has been linked to plastic waste accumulation. Campaigners stress the importance of effective implementation to achieve better health outcomes and reduce pollution.
While the strengthened pollution laws are considered a positive step, concerns remain about their enforcement. Anti-plastic campaigners highlight the need for strict implementation and accountability to ensure the effectiveness of these measures. Sri Lanka's battle against plastic pollution requires a multi-faceted approach, including education, improved waste management systems, and sustainable alternatives to single-use plastics.
