The PLASTICS: Promoting Long-term Approaches for a Sustainable, Transformative and Inclusive Circular Economy in Sri Lanka project was successfully concluded on 20th April 2026, marking the completion of a multi-year initiative dedicated to strengthening Sri Lanka’s plastic recycling sector and advancing circular economy practices. The Project was implemented through a consortium led by Acted Sri Lanka, in collaboration with Industrial Services Bureau(ISB), Biodiversity Sri Lanka, STENUM Asia, and TERI – The Energy and Resources Instituteand in close coordination with key national institutions including the Central Environmental Authority and Waste Management Authority (WMA). The project was supported by the European Union under the SWITCH-Asia grant Program.

At the closing event, Hon. Chathuranga Abeysinghe, Deputy Minister of Industry & Entrepreneurship Development, highlighted the progress made in strengthening plastic recyclers recognizing the sector’s growing transition towards a more structured and visible industry. He further emphasized the importance of expanding efforts towards consumer-driven responsibilities for sustainable and low-plastic products.

Dr. Johann H. Hesse, Head of Cooperation of the European Union Delegation to Sri Lanka and the Maldives, noted the project’s unique contribution in delivering both practical, on-ground impact and meaningful policy-level advancements, reinforcing long-term sustainability in the sector.

As a key implementing partner, ISB played a central role in supporting SMEs within the plastic recycling value chain, focusing on:

• Enhancing technical capacity, operational efficiency and legal compliance
• Facilitating production expansion of recycling enterprises
• Promoting resource efficiency and circular economy business practices
• Ensuring long term sustainability by establishing the National Plastic Recyclers Association

The project has contributed to reducing plastic waste leakage while enabling recycling enterprises to operate at a more competitive and scalable level, creating a strong foundation for future growth.

As this initiative concludes, ISB remains committed to building on these achievements—continuing to support Sri Lanka’s transition towards a circular, resource-efficient, and sustainable industrial economy.

Together, we continue to drive impact through collaboration and innovation.