News & Events

The ‘GreenInsights’ eMagazine launched by the Centre for Sustainability Solutions, University of Kelaniya is an annual eMagazine initiated with the main objective of underscoring the importance of research and education in promoting sustainability, the essence of sustainable development. While the realization of sustainable development requires a holistic approach, research and education remain vital in raising awareness among the general public. The eMagazine is also a platform for the youth and professionals to express their findings and thoughts on sustainability. Thus, this eMagazine attempts to bring together different perspectives on sustainability under the broader concept of environmental sustainability. The eMagazine welcomes articles, reviews and concept papers from academic members, postgraduates, researchers and undergraduates

I contribute tree plantation program

“I Contribute” is a tree planting program initiated with the main objective of highlighting the significance of individual responsibility in creating a greener country.

Facebook link

https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=icontribute

Key Speakers and Topics

Sri Lanka scenario in Waste management

Ms H. P. S. Jayasekara, Director-Solid Waste Management Division, Central Environmental Authority

Waste management practices in University of Kelaniya

Prof. U.P.K. Epa, Department of Zoology and Environmental Management, University of Kelaniya

Opportunities and challenges in implementing zero waste practices in a university environment.

Prof. Ajith De Alwis, Dean-Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Moratuwa

Summary

Increasing population, rapid urbanisation and industrialization have resulted in increased consumption and generation of consumer items. Consequently, the generation of waste has also increased. According to the world bank data, the world generates over 2 billion tonnes of waste annually and it is expected to grow to 3.40 billion tonnes by 2050. Thus, sustainable management of solid waste has become imperative especially focusing on the developing countries where advanced technologies are not readily available for the identification of the chronic and acute impact of waste to the environment and humans.

A systematic approach to waste management will eventually lead to a significant reduction of final dumping volumes. Though the 3R (reduce, reuse and recycle) concept of waste management is long being discussed, its implementation and practice are certainly not up to the expectations given the fact of increasing daily solid waste generation volumes. Lack of social awareness, as well as limitations in rules and regulations, are the main reasons behind this.

Universities are ideal places to implement systematic waste management plans not only because it's filled with intellectuals but also it represents a prestigious place in society. However, the implementation of such a plan may require strategic planning and a timely approach to not to disturb the existing processes in the university. This webinar is aimed to discuss the opportunities, challenges and perspectives for Sri Lankan universities to implement “zero waste” strategies for sustainable operations.

Partners

CSS: The Centre for Sustainable Solutions (CSS) is the official body that is responsible for sustainable practices at the University of Kelaniya. Currently, it is composed of members from all the faculties of the university with different backgrounds.

FCT Green Club: Faculty of Computing and Technology (FCT) is the youngest faculty in the University of Kelaniya. FCT Green Club is formed to uplift the sustainable activities in faculty premises.

The webinar is organized by the FCT Green Club of the Center for Sustainability Solutions (CSS), University of Kelaniya. The event targets all the stakeholders of the University of Kelaniya, as well as other universities in Sri Lanka.

For Covid 19 New normal Situation, University of Kelaniya is going to initiate provocative waste management project on Personal protection equipment waste collection items. University is already identified places to collect PPE and cleaning staff was trained to handle them in safety manner and University at their premises is going to install an incinerator to handle the total waste PEE without making burden to country waste accumulation. Already started educational and awareness programs about handling PPE at University Premises.