Sunday Times 2
Zero Plastic Movement and ministry join forces to address pollution
View(s):The Ministry of Science and Technology has partnered with the Zero Plastic Movement to combat the growing crisis of plastic pollution. This marks a step toward finding solutions to a pressing environmental challenge.
The collaboration was officially launched at the Ministry’s auditorium. Nishshanka de Silva, founder of the Zero Plastic Movement, conducted an educational session for district officials under the ministry. Government representatives, including the secretary to the minister, additional secretaries, and other officials, attended the event.
Plastic pollution, especially microplastics, poses a severe threat to human health and ecosystems. Recognising the need for urgent action, the ministry, under minister Prof Chrishantha Abeysena, has committed to leveraging science and technology to tackle this issue. Together with the Zero Plastic Movement, the ministry aims to empower communities and drive innovation to address the plastic problem.
The partnership will harness the strengths of the ministry’s island-wide network of Vidatha Units, which operate under divisional and district secretariats. Vidatha officers serve as a vital link, bringing science and technology to the grassroots level while channeling grassroots innovations and challenges to the forefront of national problem-solving.
By collaborating with the Zero Plastic Movement’s extensive network, Vidatha officials will work to identify and develop solutions to plastic pollution and facilitate their adoption across the country.
Vidatha officers will take the lead in spreading awareness about the need to address plastic waste and pollution. They will also support communities in bringing their ideas and solutions to the market with the backing of the ministry and the Zero Plastic Movement.
By combining the resources and expertise of the ministry and the Zero Plastic Movement, this collaboration aims to develop impactful solutions to plastic pollution and drive meaningful change nationwide.