Colombo, Sri Lanka — In a landmark move to further strengthen the environmental sustainability in the country, Coca-Cola Beverages Sri Lanka (CCBSL) has partnered with Neptune Recyclers to launch a new plastic recycling initiative under “Give Back Life”, a local program for PET collection and recycling in Sri Lanka. The official launch took place at the CCBSL premises, where a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was exchanged between CCBSL Managing Director Pradip Pandey and Abdullah Kassim, Managing Director of Neptune Recyclers, in the presence of the Governor of the Western Province, Hon. Hanif Yusoof. This initiative aims to develop community-based recycling infrastructure in selected areas and promote tourism.
The partnership centers around two key projects. The first project focuses on improving the collection and recycling of PET plastic in selected areas in the western province. It aims to strengthen waste collection efforts by identifying and developing new waste collectors through targeted training programs and by providing necessary equipment and logistical support. These training sessions offer comprehensive guidance on proper waste sorting, safety procedures, and best practices, ensuring collectors are well-equipped to carry out their work efficiently and safely.
In addition, the initiative will strengthen existing Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs) by providing essential equipment such as weighing scales and baling machines. These facilities will support other collectors and recycling centers by enabling the efficient transport of recyclable materials through proper sorting and baling. Further assistance will be extended to waste collectors, enabling them to expand and improve their operations.
To reinforce the collection network, new plastic waste collection points will be established in strategic locations. These will increase community access and enhance plastic recovery efforts, directly contributing to Sri Lanka’s broader sustainability objectives.
The second project under this partnership is specifically focused on the Madu Ganga region and centers on environmental conservation and tourism development. Madu Ganga (Madu River) is a unique mangrove eco-system connected to the sea by a narrow canal and dotted with 15 islands of varying sizes, some of which are inhabited. It is one of the most biodiverse areas in Sri Lanka and holds the distinction of being the country’s first Ramsar wetland site. Due to its rich biodiversity, Madu Ganga is home to numerous native and endemic species, some of which are listed as endangered or vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. It is also a popular tourist destination among both local and international visitors, particularly known for its wildlife safaris and mangrove boat tours.
As part of this, a floating market will be constructed on the Madu River to boost eco-tourism and support small-scale local entrepreneurs. Alongside the market, several plastic collection points will be established throughout the area to improve local waste management systems.
Thamari Senanayake, Director – Public Affairs, Communication and Sustainability stated that: “This new partnership with Neptune Recyclers marks another significant milestone in our journey toward supporting a circular economy in Sri Lanka through a structured system of PET plastic collection and recycling. Together, we are not only enhancing the infrastructure for more sustainable waste management solutions but also building a system that addresses critical gaps in the PET plastic waste, management supply chain, supports the wellbeing of collectors, and reinforces environmental stewardship.”
In a statement, Abdullah Kassim, Managing Director of Neptune Recyclers, also mentioned that: “Neptune’s approach to sustainability extends beyond recycling. It’s about building resilient communities and fostering inclusive growth. Our partnership with Coca-Cola Beverages Sri Lanka exemplifies the impact of cross-sector collaboration. By aligning innovation with social responsibility, we are demonstrating that environmental and economic progress can go hand in hand.”
Together, these initiatives aim to build a vibrant and sustainable local economy, empower entrepreneurs, enhance plastic recovery efforts, and support long-term biodiversity and environmental conservation.
