ICI -from May 15th to 17th, 2025, conducted a series of industry-focused events which brought together key players across Sri Lanka’s plastic recycling and FMCG sectors to advance the adoption of GP-certified recycled plastics. Organized by the Island Climate Initiative (ICI), the events were designed to raise awareness, build technical capacity, and promote collaboration along the recycled plastics value chain.
The first event, held on May 15th, gathered representatives of FMCG companies for a half-day session aimed at enabling and incentivising the integration of GP-certified recycled materials into FMCG packaging. Participants engaged with sample product displays and took part in expert-led discussions on the certification process, product quality, and market advantages. There was strong interest in piloting GP-certified materials, with attendees recognising the strategic potential of sustainable packaging to access new markets amidst shifting trade conditions. The event also highlighted critical knowledge gaps, particularly around how and why to scale post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic use, as well as the need for greater access to lab testing services and clearer understanding of upcoming regulations.
The momentum continued on May 16th with a strategic awareness session targeting sorters and recyclers. This session, conducted predominantly in the local language to ensure inclusivity, introduced Sri Lanka’s first Certification Standard for Recycled Plastics, developed under the GP framework. Expert presentations addressed the importance of segregation, quality standards, and certification in building market trust and improving product safety. Discussions also covered broader themes such as environmental and social governance, gender equality, and ethical practices in the recycling sector. Participants gained a more refined understanding of certification criteria and processes, and left with a better idea of the long-term business value of adopting the certification. The event concluded with recommendations to support recyclers through training, facility upgrades, and ongoing technical guidance.
On May 17th, the focus shifted to technical skill-building with a full-day specialised training for packaging manufacturers. Designed to provide practical tools for integrating recycled plastics into production lines, the training included sessions on machinery optimisation, quality control, and reject-rate reduction. A hands-on session conducted at the University of Moratuwa allowed participants to troubleshoot real-world challenges alongside seasoned industry specialists. The training empowered technical teams with the confidence and skills needed to support sustainable packaging practices within their organisations.
Across all three days, the events underscored a growing commitment within Sri Lanka’s packaging and recycling sectors to align with circular economy principles. Participants expressed enthusiasm for certified recycled materials and acknowledged the importance of quality standards, collaboration, and capacity-building. Moving forward, the focus will remain on encouraging FMCG companies to use recycled plastic in their packaging, supporting recyclers and manufacturers through targeted technical assistance, training, and ongoing engagement to ensure a transparent, and sustainable recycled plastics supply chain.
