This collaboration, stemming from SPM Eco Solutions' victory in the Plastic Innovation Challenge 2023, organized by The Island Climate Initiative (ICI) in conjunction with the United States Agency for International Development's (USAID) Clean Cities, Blue Ocean (CCBO) program, the National Innovation Agency (NIA), John Keels X (JKX), and MAS Foundation for Change, marks a significant milestone in addressing environmental concerns.
Taking on the critical challenge of plastic waste pollution in Sri Lanka through the promotion of sustainable solutions, Coca-Cola Sri Lanka is set to provide crucial funding to SPM Eco Solutions.
This funding empowers SPM Eco Solutions to enhance their decentralized upcycling centers across Sri Lanka by acquiring essential resources, including the design and manufacturing of moulds used in creating value-added products from recycled plastic waste.
Additionally, the funding enables SPM to procure machinery crucial for such operations, supporting their expansion efforts, particularly in Batticaloa.
Equipped with necessary infrastructure and machinery like shredders and extruders, these centers, bolstered by Coca-Cola's support, will optimize their processes for transforming recycled plastic into valuable products.
This collaborative initiative contributes to the establishment of a circular economy model aimed at minimizing waste and environmental harm.
Moreover, the partnership aims to cultivate collaborations with local businesses, waste collection networks, and manufacturers to establish a closed-loop system that promotes economic growth while combatting plastic pollution.
Expressing enthusiasm for the partnership, Pankaj Sinha, Managing Director for Sri Lanka & the Maldives, Coca-Cola Sri Lanka, stated,
"We are thrilled to collaborate with SPM Eco Solutions, an outstanding winner of the Plastic Innovation Challenge.
This partnership aligns with Coca-Cola's commitment to environmental sustainability and reinforces our dedication to supporting organizations that share our vision and goal for a circular economy in Sri Lanka.
We look forward to working closely with SPM Eco Solutions to make a positive impact on the environment and contribute to a more sustainable future.”
SPM Eco Solutions expresses gratitude to Coca-Cola Sri Lanka for their sponsorship, emphasizing their joint commitment to combatting plastic pollution.
They also thank Mr. Aravinth for his invaluable guidance and acknowledge the collaborative efforts of partners like ICI, USAID’s CCBO program, NIA, JKX, and MAS Foundation for Change, highlighting their essential role in addressing plastic waste pollution in Sri Lanka and fueling SPM’s commitment to environmental impact.
This partnership represents a significant stride in tackling the pressing environmental challenges confronting the nation, as both Coca-Cola Sri Lanka and SPM Eco Solutions share a common vision of promoting sustainable practices and fostering a positive environmental impact.
Together, through collaborative efforts and steadfast support, they endeavor to instigate meaningful change and contribute to a cleaner and greener Sri Lanka.