Sri Lanka sets 13% industrial emission cut as key step toward carbon neutrality by 2050

Colombo, June 9 (Daily Mirror) - Noting that the government has taken a landmark policy decision to double its emission reduction target for the industrial sector to a 13% commitment, authorities say this move forms the bedrock of Sri Lanka’s long-term climate strategy aimed at achieving 70% renewable energy generation by 2030 and complete carbon neutrality by 2050.

The announcement was made in Colombo in the context of the Sri Lanka Climate Summit 2026, held at the Taj Samudra Hotel, which brought together policymakers, international development partners, and private sector leaders to discuss the country’s climate readiness and investment potential.

The summit is organized for the second consecutive year by the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce and was held under the theme “From Risk to Opportunity: Mainstreaming Climate Action into Sri Lanka’s Growth Story.”

Addressing participants, Environment Minister Dammika Patabendi said Sri Lanka must strengthen coordination between policymakers, financial institutions, and industry leaders to convert climate commitments into bankable investments and long-term economic gains.

He said that while national-level climate targets are essential, equal attention must be given to strengthening ground-level resilience and circular economy initiatives. In this regard, the Ministry of Environment and the Central Environmental Authority are expanding programmes focused on waste management reforms and capacity building for informal waste collectors, aiming to integrate them into the formal green economy.

The summit also highlighted the importance of inclusive regional environmental management as a critical component of climate preparedness, with discussions emphasizing the role of informal waste workers in supporting sustainable urban systems.

The event brought together representatives from key international organizations, including the UNDRR, UNDP, ADB, and the FAO, alongside local business leaders and climate experts, reinforcing the need for collaborative action in addressing climate risks and unlocking sustainable growth opportunities.