Gunadamin Elephant House of Ceylon Cold Stores PLC (CCS), the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and Viridis Recycling recognized the contributions of women waste collectors to economic empowerment and environmental wellbeing at a ceremony at the Selvanayagam Memorial Hall in Batticaloa. The event, which celebrated Sri Lanka’s first women-led plastic recyclable collection network and material recovery facility (MRF), featured the handover of e-bikes for plastic waste collection. Funded by Gunadamin Elephant House, these e-bikes mark a significant step forward in enhancing waste management efficiency and reducing environmental impact.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Daminda Gamlath, President, Consumer Foods Sector John Keells Holdings PLC (JKH) said, “This e-bike represents our commitment to innovative solutions in environmental stewardship and community empowerment. We believe these initiatives will sustainably increase plastic collection and affirm our commitment to ESG goals, as exemplified by our partnership with Kaviya Self Development Women’s Centre.”
The half-day event saw the attendance of dignitaries to support these women’s achievements, including Douglas E. Sonnek, Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy; the Governor of the Eastern Province, Hon. Senthil Thondaman; and other senior government officials.
A plastic collection drive and a street drama performance with the theme of “transforming waste into wealth” took place before the ceremony.
Douglas E. Sonnek, Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy, highlighted the broader impact of the initiative, stating, “U.S. assistance to increase income generation opportunities for Sri Lankan women strengthens prospects for economic growth and benefits families, communities, and the country. The United States is partnering to provide equal economic opportunities to unleash women’s full potential, because women’s economic security and inclusion are key to breaking the cycle of poverty.”
The Governor of the Eastern Province, Hon. Senthil Thondaman, echoed these sentiments, expressing appreciation for the organizations involved and applauding the women in Batticaloa for their efforts. His support underscores the project’s significance as a powerful example of community-led efforts driving significant environmental and social change.
Active across five coastal provinces, these plastic waste collection networks have significantly improved the economic status of rural women. Demonstrating a circular economic model, this activity emphasizes the efficient and sustainable use of resources, recovery, and regeneration. Supported by Gunadamin Elephant House, USAID, and Viridis, the initiative trains women to identify and collect recyclable waste,
including plastics, and incorporate them into the recycling chain. It has created approximately 200 income generation opportunities and increased the household incomes of women waste collectors.
In a testament to the project’s impact, Rohini Dharshan, a woman waste collector from Batticaloa supported by the Kaviya Self-Development Women’s Center, which played a pivotal role in encouraging local women to join this initiative said, “This project turned trash into an unexpected source of income for me. I am now not just tidying up the environment, I am also earning by doing it.”
About the Organizations
Ceylon Cold Stores: Ceylon Cold Stores PLC, manufacturer and distributor of the Elephant House brand, is a subsidiary of John Keells Holdings PLC (JKH), the largest conglomerate listed on the Colombo Stock Exchange, operating with over 70 companies in 7 diverse industry sectors. With a 150-year legacy, Elephant House is a cherished brand, deeply ingrained in Sri Lankan households, known for its trustworthiness and commitment to societal betterment. Gunadamin Elephant House stands as the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arm of Elephant House, dedicated to a range of initiatives designed for the betterment of society. This project falls under the Waste Management pillar, which, together with the Community and Sustainable Sourcing pillars, forms the holistic approach of Gunadamin Elephant House towards sustainable and responsible practices.
USAID is the development agency of the United States Government primarily responsible for foreign aid. USAID has provided development and humanitarian assistance worldwide for more than 60 years. This initiative was funded through USAID Ocean Plastics Reduction Activity. With its five-year focus, the activity is committed to reducing environmental plastics, strengthening solid waste management practices, and boosting recycling initiatives in both Sri Lanka and Maldives. This collaboration is symbolic of USAID’s broader mission: championing environmental stewardship while driving socioeconomic empowerment.
Viridis is a leading recycling and waste management company founded in 2005, primarily focused on PET bottle recycling and processing various plastics in Sri Lanka. With over 17 years of experience, they have expanded their services to include electronic waste management, hazardous waste disposal, water treatment plant maintenance, and secure document/product destruction. By offering high-quality recycled materials and comprehensive waste solutions, Viridis contributes to both environmental sustainability and financial savings for businesses.
Established in 2002, “Kaviya” focuses on empowering disadvantaged communities, particularly women, by building self-confidence and leadership skills. Initially serving in all 14 divisional secretariat divisions in Batticaloa, they provided crucial support during crises like the tsunami and conflict periods. Today, Kaviya continues its work, emphasizing women’s entrepreneurship development across these areas, aiming to improve market access and foster economic growth.
