Under the Strengthening Women and Youth Engagement in Informal Waste Management in Sri Lanka (SWYFT) project, three awareness programmes on responsible waste management were successfully conducted in collaboration with Neptune Recyclers at Maliyadewa College, Kurunegala on 09th February 2026, reaching approximately 800 students.
The awareness sessions were conducted by Mr. Ruwan Premathilaka, Field Officer of Janathakshan, with the objective of promoting environmentally responsible behaviour among school children and encouraging sustainable waste management practices from an early age. The programmes formed part of SWYFT’s continued focus on school-based awareness raising to foster long-term behavioural change.
During the sessions, students were introduced to key concepts of responsible waste management, with particular emphasis on the 3R principles, Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. The discussions highlighted the environmental, social, and health impacts of improper waste disposal, especially the effects of plastic pollution on ecosystems and communities.
Special attention was given to plastic waste management and recycling, with practical explanations on waste segregation, the recycling process, and the role of the private sector, such as Neptune Recyclers, in supporting circular economy solutions. Students were encouraged to practice waste separation at household and school levels and to act as change agents within their families and communities.
The interactive nature of the programmes enabled students to actively participate by asking questions, sharing experiences, and reflecting on daily waste-related practices. By linking environmental responsibility with values such as discipline, responsibility, and care for the environment, the sessions reinforced the importance of individual action in addressing broader waste management challenges.
The collaboration with Neptune Recyclers provided students with practical insights into recycling pathways, helping bridge the gap between awareness and real-world waste management solutions. The strong participation of students demonstrated a growing interest and willingness among youth to contribute to environmental protection efforts.
These awareness programmes are part of SWYFT’s broader commitment to empowering women and youth while strengthening inclusive and sustainable waste management practices across Sri Lanka. Janathakshan will continue to conduct similar initiatives across target districts, working with schools, communities, and private sector partners to build a more environmentally conscious and responsible future generation.
