Collection and Co-processing of Mixed Plastics in Puttalam, Sri Lanka (PPRS)

This project addresses the growing volume of post-consumer non-recyclable plastic waste, which often ends up in landfills or water bodies, ultimately impacting the ecological footprint and natural habitats. This has become a significant issue because Sri Lanka is an island nation; thus, a substantial volume of the mismanaged plastic waste ends up in the coastal environment, increasing the consequential damages threatening public health, biodiversity, and marine life. Since these wastes are non-recyclable, a scalable solution is required to remove them from the environment while promoting the circular economy. 

Co-processing is used to address non-recyclable plastic pollution by collecting these materials through municipal councils and directing them to recover energy in the cement kiln, replacing fossil fuel. This process not only ensures responsible waste management but also engages communities in creating a cleaner and more sustainable future.

The process faces financial challenges, particularly in the value chain, due to the high logistics and processing costs associated with collecting and pre-processing plastic waste to make it suitable for replacing fossil fuels. The financing gained through plastic credit sales will be utilized to fund the supply chain of the plastic collection, including community engagement in plastic collection activities. Additionally, it will be used to finance the pre-processing of plastic waste. The credits will enable sustainable non-recycled plastic waste co-processing activities by bridging the value chain gap, thereby ensuring a continuous reduction in non-recycled plastic waste ending up in landfills or water bodies. 

This project delivers significant social and environmental benefits by reducing plastic pollution, creating better living environments, improving public health, conserving natural resources, and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. It creates sustainable jobs and empowers local communities, promoting environmental awareness and fostering a healthier, cleaner living environment that supports both people and ecosystems.