On December 11, 2024, a consultation on the Marine Litter Action Plan was held in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka, bringing together 117 participants. Organized under the Plastic Free Rivers and Seas for South Asia (PLEASE) project, implemented by the South Asia Cooperative Environment Programme (SACEP) and supported by the World Bank, the session included representatives from the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Provincial Director of the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, local fishing communities, women-led fishing groups, the Sri Lanka Police, and other key stakeholders.

The event provided a platform to address the pressing issue of marine litter, focusing on its impact on coastal communities and the fishing industry. Discussions centered on identifying the primary sources of marine litter, including abandoned or lost fishing gear, and assessing the effectiveness of current waste management practices.

Participants emphasized the urgent need for strengthened policies, improved waste management strategies, and greater collaboration to combat plastic pollution in marine ecosystems. The integration of local knowledge, particularly insights from fishermen, was recognized as essential in developing sustainable and impactful solutions.

This consultation represents a critical step in creating a national roadmap for Sri Lanka to tackle marine plastic pollution, with a focus on practical, context-specific strategies. Supported by the collaborative efforts of SACEP and the World Bank, the initiative underscores the importance of regional and global partnerships in addressing environmental challenges.

Future consultations will continue to gather stakeholder input and foster a coordinated, multi-stakeholder approach to protecting marine biodiversity and ensuring a cleaner, healthier environment for future generations. This initiative highlights the PLEASE Project’s commitment to safeguarding coastal and marine ecosystems while contributing to regional efforts to reduce plastic pollution.