Env. Ministry with UNDP develops framework to handle hazardous waste

Sri Lanka is in the midst of developing a project to improve the handling of hazardous materials, an effort that is rolled out with support from the United Nations. 

To combat the issues arising as a result of hazardous waste, the Environment Ministry together with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Sri Lanka, with the support of the Global Environment Facility is developing a project to improve the regulatory framework on chemical management, strengthen national capacities in agricultural chemicals management and support the transformation of healthcare waste management systems. 
The key objective is to enforce regulations and minimise or eliminate releases persistent organic pollutants (POPs), mercury and other chemicals of concern and phase-out the use of mercury-based products in the health sector and improve healthcare waste management systems.  

“The cross-cutting nature and complexity of the issues faced by the key government institutions involved regarding chemical management has made it complicated to find a single solution that works for all,” said Environment Ministry Secretary Dr. Anil Jasinghe commenting on the project. 
This framework will allow all key institutions to realise the importance of collectively coming together to create one framework that strengthens national capacities in agricultural chemical management and healthcare waste management systems in Sri Lanka.

UNDP Sri Lanka Officer In Charge Malin Herwig pointed out that the improper management of healthcare and agricultural waste has adversely affected the health of individuals working in the healthcare and agriculture sectors, communities and environment at large while jeopardizing food and nutrition. 
“This is a timely concern for Sri Lanka. The project serves to improve the regulatory framework on chemical management, strengthen national capacities in agricultural chemicals management and support the transformation of healthcare waste management systems,” he said.

Sri Lanka is also a signatory to the Minamata Convention on Mercury, which stipulates that the manufacturing of mercury-based items, including medical equipment, must cease as of January 2021. The UNSP stressed that replacing mercury-based products must be coordinated to avoid hazardous waste from contaminating municipal solid waste and affecting both human health and environment.