The Ministry of Environment has begun setting up a national mechanism to manage electrical and electronic waste (e-waste), with government bodies, private firms and regulators involved.
A discussion was held at the ministry on Monday under Deputy Minister Anton Jayakody, ahead of International E-Waste Day on 14 October. The ministry said the aim is to improve collection, reuse and recycling, and to support the government’s target of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) provisions are to be introduced under the National Environmental Act. A National Policy on Electrical and Electronic Waste Management is expected to receive approval soon, the ministry said.
The Central Environmental Authority (CEA) has already launched an islandwide e-waste collection programme with Dialog Axiata. Households and institutions can hand in unwanted equipment at communication service centres and designated collection points.
The CEA, Sri Lanka Customs, the Department of Import and Export Control and the Consumer Affairs Authority will help strengthen collection and segregation in communities.
