Enhancing the solid waste management practices of export processing zones of Sri Lanka

Abstract

Solid waste management is a critical concern in the modern world due to the compilation of solid waste, which cannot be easily recycled or managed. Furthermore, this issue has been continuously affecting most of the countries which are having Export Processing Zones (EPZ). Similarly, EPZs in Sri Lanka zones are making a considerable impact on the incensement of solid waste. Due to the unavailability of the proper solid waste management system, social economic and environmental issues have aroused. Hence this research aimed to develop strategies for enhancing solid waste management practices in Export Processing Zones in Sri Lanka on the identification of better solid waste management practices in EPZs Sri Lanka. A qualitative research method was followed to achieve the aim of the study According to the interview guideline, 12 interviewees participated representing 3 case study EPZs in Sri Lanka. The primary data was collected through interviews the evaluated using manual content analysis. The research finds current solid waste management practises in the global context have different varieties however in Sri Lankan contracts are limited to segregation open dumping end minimum level of recycling and reusing process. Furthermore, in most cases, open dumping is used for hazardous solid waste generated in export processing zones. In the Sri Lankan context incineration is widely used as a solid waste management process at its primary level. However, financial capabilities limited motivation, unavailability of national policy, political influence, and limited awareness of the public and management cause barriers to the solid waste management process. The research suggested that finding the stakeholders and providing specific responsibilities with a focus on producing solid waste generation, developing national policy, continuous monitoring, providing financial incentives, generating independent management authority, and increasing public awareness through different campaigns will support the solid waste management process in an improved version. Even though solid waste management is limited to export processing zones, it is essential to concern this aspect in a wide view to ensure the social economy and Environmental Protection of the country. The research findings on solid waste management in EPZs concerning successful methods used in a global context propose guidelines for better practices. Furthermore, the development of the legal systems and long-term policies are key findings of the research to enhance the socio-environmental and economic best practices in Sri Lanka. Keywords: Solid waste management, Export processing zones, Sri Lanka, Incineration, 3R concept