Challenges of Reducing Polythene and Plastic in Sri Lanka: A Case Study of Attanagalla Secretariat Division

Abstract

Low density polyethylene, commonly known as polythene, was first synthesised by Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI) in England in 1933. Due to its extensive usage as a packaging material, along with other uses, it has now begun to pose a serious threat to the entire ecosystem. This material, which was used to make a variety of consumer goods, is commonly used for packaging a wide range of products including foodstuffs. It has been estimated that approximately 20 billion polythene bags are used in Sri Lanka. Because polythene and plastics take a long time to decompose (20–100 years), these materials have been contributing heavily to the pollution of the environment. Unfortunately, much of the discarded polyethene ends up in garbage dumps, thereby posing a great threat not only to humans but also to animals. This study aimed to investigate the use of polythene in supermarkets in the Attanagalla division, the management of household polythene waste, and the search for alternatives to replace polythene and plastics. Data were collected by interviewing 40 consumers and getting their feedback on the use of polythene bags in which the goods were supplied to them. Observations were also made in the field. It was noted that some consumers liked to use polythene bags while many others disliked them. More than 95% of the supermarket products were packed in polythene and plastic containers and packs. It was observed that there were shortcomings in the production of reusable bags, and because of that disposable polythene bags had to be used, causing the supermarkets to incur huge costs. On average, more than five polythene bags were used per customer to pack his purchases per shop visit. This costs between Rs. 25 and Rs. 30. There seemed to be no alternative to polythene and plastic, due to the lack of suppliers for more environmentally friendly packaging materials. Therefore, it is suggested to establish a system that will supply more eco-friendly bags and educate the public on the use of environmentally friendly alternatives.

Citation

Hemakumara, G.P.T.S. and Madhusankha, T.G.S. (2023), "Challenges of Reducing Polythene and Plastic in Sri Lanka: A Case Study of Attanagalla Secretariat Division", Crowther, D. and Quoquab, F. (Ed.) Socially Responsible Plastic (Developments in Corporate Governance and Responsibility, Vol. 19), Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 59-73. https://doi.org/10.1108/S2043-052320230000019004