Responsible Consumption & Production

Sustainable Development Goal 12, "Responsible Consumption and Production," addresses the critical need for sustainable resource use and responsible practices in both production and consumption. With global consumption patterns placing increasing pressure on natural resources and contributing to environmental degradation, this goal advocates for reducing waste, enhancing resource efficiency, and making eco-friendly choices across all sectors of society. In Sri Lanka, addressing unsustainable consumption and production practices is essential for protecting biodiversity, managing limited resources, and supporting social and economic well-being. The University of Kelaniya contributes to SDG 12 by integrating sustainable practices on campus and promoting responsible resource use. Through initiatives such as reducing paper waste, implementing recycling programs, and encouraging digital solutions to replace physical materials, the university actively works to reduce its ecological footprint.

The Center for Sustainability Solutions at the university also engages in awareness campaigns that educate students and staff about responsible consumption, from minimizing single-use plastics to promoting recycling and waste separation. By incorporating sustainability principles into its operations and academic curriculum, the University of Kelaniya sets an example for responsible resource management in Sri Lanka, encouraging a culture of sustainability within the academic community and beyond. These efforts support the broader goal of conserving resources, reducing environmental impact, and fostering economic growth that is equitable and sustainable. Through responsible consumption and production practices, the University of Kelaniya plays a vital role in advancing a future where resources are used thoughtfully and sustainably, benefiting both current and future generations.

University Policies and Circulars

• Plastic Water Bottle Policy 

• Green Concept 

• Green Building Policy 

• Polythene Policy 

Waste Measurement and Recycling 

The University of Kelaniya is committed to Sustainable Development Goal 12 by actively measuring and managing waste generated across the campus. The university systematically tracks organic waste production, identifying opportunities for reduction, reuse, down-cycling, and up-cycling to minimize environmental impact. 

1. Organic Waste 

I. Composting

The University of Kelaniya composting project not only contributes to a cleaner and more attractive university environment but also supports sustainable practices by reducing waste, promoting soil health, and making compost accessible to the wider community. It showcases the university's commitment to environmental stewardship and responsible waste management. The University has launched a composting project with the goal of beautifying the campus environment and making it more environmentally friendly. This initiative includes two compost yards, one located at the Landscape Division on the main campus and the other at the Faculty of Medicine. 

III. Waste-to-Food Program at the Main Campus 

Daily Collection: Around 120 kg of kitchen waste is gathered from the main campus canteen each day.

Usage: All collected waste is supplied to a piggery, promoting a sustainable waste disposal method by repurposing food waste for livestock feed.

IV. Coconut Shell Recycling 

Coconut shells collected from the Faculty of Medicine are sold to PR Coconut Shell Collecting Company for reuse, contributing to a circular economy by repurposing organic waste into valuable products. 

2. Inorganic Waste

I. Plastic Recycling Program 

Collected plastics are handed over to Beira Enviro Solutions (Pvt) Ltd once a month. This program focuses on recycling plastics, reducing plastic waste, and promoting the circular economy.

II. Glass Recycling Program 

Collected glass items are handed over to Piramal Glass Ceylon PLC in Horana once a month. Glass recycling helps reduce the environmental impact of glass production and promotes the responsible use of this material.

Additional evidence link

1.   RR Centre

·         https://medicine.kln.ac.lk/prog/gpc/index.php/rr-centre

2.   Green Practice Committee

·         https://medicine.kln.ac.lk/prog/gpc/

3.   Paper Recycling Programme

·         https://units.kln.ac.lk/css/index.php/paper-recycling-programme

·         https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iNXxVN4yxo_Om6ITon57nmghps5P1dGO/view?usp=drive_link

4.   E-waste collection programme

·         https://units.kln.ac.lk/css/index.php/event

3. Toxic Waste

II. Partnership with INSEE Ecocycle for Hazardous Waste Management 

• On August 31, 2017, the University of Kelaniya signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with INSEE Ecocycle to manage lab waste safely and responsibly. Hazardous chemicals and lab waste are sent to INSEE Ecocycle for recycling, ensuring that toxic substances are disposed of in an environmentally sound manner. 

For more details:  https://units.kln.ac.lk/healthservices/

III. Safe Handling and Disposal Manual for Laboratory Chemicals 

• The university has introduced a comprehensive manual to guide safe handling and disposal of laboratory chemicals. This manual serves as a key resource for promoting safe lab practices, protecting the environment, and ensuring proper disposal of hazardous waste. 

IV. Clinical Waste Management 

• Clinical waste, including swabs, biopsy samples, sharps, and body tissues, is securely segregated and stored to prevent unauthorized access, ensuring safety.

• The university partners with Sisili Hanaro Encare (Pvt) Ltd to handle clinical waste disposal. Waste is collected monthly, ensuring it is treated and disposed of according to safety and environmental regulations, minimizing risks to health and the environment.