Packaging Institute renews commitment to sustainability

On the occasion of World Environment Day 2025, the Sri Lanka Institute of Packaging (SLIP) reaffirmed its unwavering dedication to promoting sustainable packaging practices and supporting both national and global environmental objectives. 

Observed annually on June 5, the World Environment Day stands as the United Nations’ flagship campaign to raise awareness and inspire action to protect our planet.

This year’s theme ‘Ending Plastic Pollution’ underscores the urgent need to rethink how packaging is designed, produced, consumed and managed. In response, the SLIP continues to lead the charge within Sri Lanka’s packaging industry by championing innovation, education and collaborative efforts as pillars of its sustainability efforts. 

“Sustainability is no longer a choice; it is a responsibility,” said SLIP President Thusith Wijesinghe.

“We are committed to driving industry-wide transformation through education, policy engagement and environmentally responsible innovation. Strategic alignment with the new environment minister and senior government officials will be essential as we prepare for the forthcoming plastic pollution regulations.”

Wijesinghe emphasised that tackling plastic waste requires a reliable collection and recycling system. The current efforts are hindered by inefficient waste management. He urged the government to implement structured mechanisms like producer responsibility organisations in partnership with the private sector to boost recycling, reduce pollution and support a circular economy.

In partnership with the Sri Lanka Food Processors Association, the SLIP organised a landmark stakeholder workshop on the upcoming extended producer responsibility law. Held at the BMICH, Colombo, the event convened over 200 participants, including packaging manufacturers, brand owners and regulatory authorities, to explore the law’s implications and prepare the industry gear up for compliance.

The SLIP actively collaborates with the Central Environmental Authority and international development partners such as JICA and UNIDO. These partnerships support initiatives in sustainable packaging, technical knowledge exchange and policy development, driving collective action toward responsible packaging solutions across Sri Lanka. 

The SLIP plays a role in the Clean Sri Lanka project. Through this partnership, the SLIP conducts targeted awareness programmes on the area of environment, in terms of packaging, where the promotion of eco-friendly packaging practices is aligned with the national environmental goals.