From 18th April for 10 consecutive days, Janathakshan GTE Ltd., together with Coca-Cola Beverages Lanka Limited, and Neptune Recyclers as the recycling partner, successfully carried out the Dalada Dakma Plastic Collection Program. This initiative was organized under the Strengthening Women and Youth Engagement in Informal Waste Management in Sri Lanka (SWYFT) Project, funded by The Coca-Cola Foundation and implemented by Janathakshan. The SWYFT Project is currently being implemented across Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Kurunegala, and Matale districts.
Recognizing the large influx of pilgrims and visitors to Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth Relic) during the festival season, this program addressed the urgent issue of plastic waste accumulation in the area. Janathakshan mobilized volunteer students from universities and surrounding communities, who actively participated in collection and awareness activities.
Thanks to their collective efforts, an impressive 3.3 metric tons of plastic bottles were collected and diverted from the environment to responsible recycling channels.
Key Activities Carried Out
- Awareness Raising: Volunteers were sensitized on the impact of plastic pollution and the importance of proper waste management.
- Collection of PET Bottles: PET bottles were collected from both pilgrims and the surrounding environment, reducing the immediate plastic footprint of the event.
- Community Cleaning Program: A focused cleaning initiative was organized in the vicinity of the Temple of the Tooth Relic, ensuring a cleaner and more respectful environment for pilgrims.
- Engagement with Celebrities: A special PET collection event with local celebrities attracted significant public attention and highlighted the importance of sustainable waste management practices.
This initiative not only contributed to a cleaner sacred site but also reinforced the SWYFT Project’s broader mission of empowering women and youth in informal waste management, strengthening recycling infrastructure, and building sustainable communities.
