Colombo: Sri Lanka will implement a national waste management programme from 2026 to 2029 in three phases, with 30 billion Sri Lankan rupees (about US$100 million) allocated for the initiative, officials said Thursday. The programme is intended to establish a long-term national system for waste collection, segregation, disposal, and recycling.

According to Nam News Network, a discussion held at the Presidential Secretariat reviewed district-level waste data, proposed solutions, and potential implementation challenges. Officials also considered international waste management practices and recommendations from local experts.

The programme will promote household composting, waste segregation, recycling-based income opportunities, and more efficient collection systems. Plans also include directing biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste to recycling centres, strengthening legal action against illegal dumping, and introducing a hotline for public complaints.

Special attention will be given to coastal waste, m
edical waste, and waste generated around ports, including discarded fiberglass materials and fishing nets.