CEA urges public to avoid polythene and plastic during Vesak season

During Vesak, polythene and plastic are often used for lanterns, decorative pieces, entertainment supplies, and food distribution. The CEA pointed out that despite existing laws against many such products, single-use items like lunch sheets, cups, plates, spoons, forks, and plastic wrapping materials are still widely used. According to Gazette Extraordinary No. 2341/30 issued on July 19, 2023, several single-use plastic items, including expanded polystyrene containers, plastic straws, cups, plates, spoons, forks, knives, stirrers, and plastic garlands, are prohibited. Additionally, polythene food wrappers and lunch sheets were banned under Gazette Extraordinary No. 2034/34 on September 1, 2017. The CEA emphasized that selling, distributing for free, displaying, or using these banned products is illegal and punishable by law. Furthermore, the Authority reminded the public that under Gazette Extraordinary No. 2034/37, which also dates from September 1, 2017, the use of polythene or polypropylene for decorations at any political, social, religious, national, or cultural events is not allowed. These regulations aim to protect people and the environment from the harmful effects of plastic pollution. Improper disposal of plastic and polythene waste has contaminated rivers, oceans, and other waterways, causing injury or death to animals that ingest or get caught in plastic. The CEA also warned that microplastics in our food and water systems pose serious environmental and health risks. Therefore, they urged the public to choose eco-friendly alternatives and ensure that Vesak celebrations are conducted in a sustainable and responsible manner.