‘Catalysts for Sustainability’ webinar sparks vital conversations on sustainability
In an engaging session, the recent 'Catalysts for Sustainability' webinar, organised by the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, provided a platform for insightful discussions on pressing environmental challenges and innovative solutions for a sustainable future.
Held on November 9, the webinar brought together a distinguished panel of experts, including Anosha Koralage, Head of Sustainability, Enterprise Risk Management and Group Initiatives - John Keells Group; Richard Taylor, Operations Director – Ceylon Tobacco Company PLC and Lakshan Madurasinghe, Regional Lead for Public Affairs, Communications & Sustainability (Sri Lanka, Maldives, Nepal & Bhutan) – Coca-Cola.
Ms. Koralage stated, “In the realm of a circular economy, the goal is to extend the life of key resources, minimising waste and resource consumption. The foundation of an effective waste management strategy lies in thoughtful design—creating products with modularity to prevent disposal after their lifecycle. The focus is on substituting virgin materials with recycled resources. As products reach consumers, promoting awareness and knowledge about the post-consumption stage and proper recycling practices becomes crucial. Throughout the entire lifecycle, from creation to disposal, expertise in processes is essential, ensuring every aspect considers recyclability. It's a holistic approach to sustainably manage resources and minimise environmental impact.”
Commenting on the importance of corporate responsibility in sustainability, Mr. Taylor noted: “Organisational success goes beyond financial gains; it's intricately linked to sustainable development. In an era where environmental consciousness is paramount, organisations must prioritise sustainability. At CTC, we focus on driving excellence in the environmental, social and governance (ESG) aspects. Our key areas include responsible water stewardship, waste reduction within the circular economy, biodiversity and reforestation. Businesses must put ESG at the forefront.”
Mr. Madurasinghe said: “Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) isn't just a strategy—it's a vital commitment to environmental sustainability, especially at Coca-Cola. By holding manufacturers, importers and brand owners accountable for each product throughout its life cycle, EPR transforms our approach from linear to circular. This means considering post-sale responsibilities, making it more than a mere compliance checkbox; it becomes an ingrained practice within the organisational fabric. Sustainability is a collective effort, urging collaboration among diverse entities. Through proactive measures, we can create a seamless, interconnected process that paves the way for a truly sustainable and responsible future.”