Hayleys Aventura (Pvt) Ltd, a subsidiary of Hayleys PLC hosted the inaugural Congress for Sustainable Materials 2024 at the Kingsbury Hotel, Colombo recently.
This year’s theme was ‘The Future of Plastics & Packaging.’
The Congress showcased two panels, each representative of various industries such as agriculture, food, packaging, textiles, and gloves in Sri Lanka.
The country has struggled with inadequate waste management systems and limited infrastructure for recycling, leading to significant environmental issues. While there were local initiatives and efforts to promote recycling, the overall success rate of these initiatives was negligible compared to the volume of waste generated, with only 5% of total plastic waste being recycled in Sri Lanka.
Plastics remain an integral part of various industries due to their versatility and cost-effectiveness. While complete elimination may not be feasible, prioritising reuse, recycling, and responsible disposal will ensure a sustainable future for the industry and the environment.
Managing Director of Hayleys Aventura, Wasaba Jayasekera said, “We wish to shape a future where plastics coexist with sustainability. Through strategic collaboration, we aim to propel advancements that support responsible practices, such as biodegradable plastics, to guide us toward a more sustainable and environmentally conscious tomorrow.”