Sri Lanka’s first zero-emission Material Collection and Processing Centre (MCPC) powered entirely by hydropower was officially opened at Somerset Estate, Thalawakelle in the Nuwara Eliya District, under the Strengthening Women and Youth Engagement in Informal Waste Management in Sri Lanka (SWYFT) Project.
This landmark initiative is funded by The Coca-Cola Foundation (TCCF) and implemented by Janathakshan, with Neptune Recyclers as the recycling partner, in collaboration with Thalawakelle Plantations.
The centre was inaugurated in commemoration of World Recycling Day, marking a significant milestone in advancing sustainable waste management solutions within the plantation sector. Operating entirely on 100% hydropower, the facility stands as Sri Lanka’s first hydropower-driven MCPC, demonstrating an innovative and environmentally responsible approach to waste management.
Innovative and Sustainable Waste Management Solutions
The facility is equipped with baler machines, as well as electric bikes and a specially designed three-wheeler to support efficient material collection and transportation. Notably, both the e-bikes and the three-wheeler are powered and charged using hydropower, ensuring a fully zero-emission operation.
The three-wheeler introduced through this initiative is also a first-of-its-kind design specifically developed for material collection, further enhancing efficiency and innovation within the waste management system.
This initiative represents the first public–private partnership in waste management within the plantation sector, bringing together key stakeholders to promote circular economy practices and sustainable environmental solutions.
Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration
The opening ceremony was attended by the Mayor of Nuwara Eliya, the Chairman of the Pradeshiya Sabha, the Chief Executive Officer of Talawakelle Tea Estate, Mr. Roshan Narasinghage (Director of Public Affairs, Communications and Sustainability), and Dr. Janaka Hemathilaka, Chief Executive Officer of Janathakshan. Representatives from Coca-Cola Beverages, Talawakelle Tea Estate, Janathakshan, and Neptune Recyclers, along with members of the local community, were also present at the event.
Strengthening Waste Management and Livelihoods
Under the SWYFT Project, a total of five Material Collection and Processing Centres (MCPCs) have now been established across the Kandy, Kurunegala, Matale, and Nuwara Eliya Districts. These centres play a vital role in strengthening local waste management systems, enhancing recycling infrastructure, and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities, particularly for women and youth engaged in informal waste collection.
The establishment of the hydropower-driven MCPC in Thalawakelle highlights how innovative, inclusive, and environmentally sustainable solutions can transform waste management systems while contributing to climate resilience and community development.
