New Construction Waste Recycling Centre Opened Under Clean Sri Lanka Programme

A new Construction and Demolition Waste (C&D) Management Recycling Centre established under the Clean Sri Lanka national programme was officially opened yesterday (08) at the Ekala Industrial Zone.

The Clean Sri Lanka Secretariat has allocated 200 million rupees for this project. The recycling centre has been set up within the premises of the State Engineering Corporation, which operates under the Ministry of Housing and Water Supply.

This project is considered a major initiative aimed at creating sustainable environmental change within the construction sector. Globally, around 40% of total waste and 25% of carbon emissions are generated by the construction industry. In Sri Lanka’s Western Province alone, nearly 300 tons of construction waste are generated daily.

Authorities stated that these wastes were previously disposed of improperly, causing soil pollution, water contamination, and flood risks. Through the use of new technology, steps have now been taken to recycle this waste and convert it into valuable raw materials.

Officials further noted that this initiative would help protect natural resources while also reducing construction costs.

For the establishment of this recycling centre, machinery and land worth 350 million rupees have been allocated through the full intervention of the State Engineering Corporation. The facility has the capacity to recycle 200 metric tons of waste per hour.

In addition, a modern laboratory and administrative building have also been established under the project. Out of the allocated 200 million rupees, 150 million rupees have already been released.

It was also announced that there are plans to expand research activities in the future by collaborating with engineering faculties of state universities.

Government officials including Susil Ranasinghe, Anton Jayakody, T.B. Sarath, and Mahinda Jayasinghe participated in the event.