Each year on June 5th, the world comes together to celebrate World Environment Day, the largest international platform for environmental outreach led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). First observed in 1973 following the 1972 Stockholm Conference on the Human Environment, this day has grown into a powerful global movement advocating for the
protection of our planet.
In 2025, World Environment Day is hosted by the Republic of Korea, and its theme, “Let’s Together Pledge to Save the Blue Planet for a Bright Future,” emphasizes urgent collective action against plastic pollution, one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time.
The Global Crisis of Plastic Pollution Plastic pollution is deeply woven into the triple planetary crisis: climate change, nature and biodiversity loss, and pollution and waste. It’s estimated that in 2024 alone, 400 million tonnes of plastic were produced, and much of it has ended up polluting oceans, rivers, and even human bodies in the form of microplastics.
Microplastics are now found everywhere—from the Mariana Trench to Mount Everest—and even in our arteries, lungs, brains, and breast milk. The health implications are deeply concerning, including increased risks of strokes, heart attacks, and premature births.
Globally, 11 million tonnes of plastic leak into aquatic ecosystems each year. By 2025, plastic consumption is projected to reach 516 million tonnes, and by 2060, over 1.2 billion tonnes annually. Yet, only 9% of all plastics are actually recycled, and just 21% are economically viable for recycling. Clearly, recycling alone is not enough. A circular economy for plastics, which
focuses on redesigning products to be reusable and recyclable, is critical. A more circular model would help plastic products
last longer, and make them easier to recycle and reuse, preventing them from ending up in the environment as waste. Such a
shift could reduce ocean plastic pollution by over 80%, save governments up to $70 billion, and create healthier ecosystems and stronger economies. UN emphasis that in two months’ time, from 5 to 14 August in Geneva, Switzerland countries will come together to hammer-out a New Global Treaty to end plastic pollution covers the life-cycle of plastic, through the perspective of circular economies.
Sri Lanka’s Stand Against Plastic Pollution
Sri Lanka, too, faces the heavy burden of plastic waste, generating approximately 1.59 million metric tons of mismanaged plastic annually—much of which finds its way into the ocean, endangering marine life. Notably, the X-Press Pearl disaster served as a stark reminder of the environmental dangers posed by plastic. To address this, the Sri Lankan government has enacted several legal and policy measures under the National Environmental Act No. 47 of 1980:
1. Ban on Polythene Products (2017): Outlaws manufacture and use of polythene thinner than 20 microns.
2. Ban on Expanded Polystyrene Food Containers (2017): Targets commonly littered items like foam cups and plates.
3. Ban on Certain Plastic Items (2021): Includes sachets under 20 ml, PET agrochemical packaging, and plastic-stemmed cotton buds.
Moreover, the National Action Plan on Plastic Waste Management (2021–2030) based on the 3R principles (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) the plan aims to minimize plastic pollution, promote sustainable practices, and contribute to a circular economy It focuses on;
Strengthening regulations
Raising public awareness
Improving recycling and waste infrastructure
Promoting sustainable alternatives
Way Forward
While regulations and plans are essential, lasting change requires public engagement, corporate responsibility, and government collaboration. Businesses must innovate for sustainable packaging, and educational campaigns must drive home the importance of reducing single-use plastics. As countries move toward a global treaty to end plastic pollution, Sri Lanka must continue to lead by example. Building a just and inclusive circular economy—one that safeguards workers, waste pickers, and vulnerable communities—will be key to success. Let this World Environment Day 2025 be a turning point. The plastic crisis may be vast, but the solutions are within reach. Together, let’s rethink how we use plastic, protect our ecosystems, and ensure a healthier planet for generations to come.
Published on: https://www.dailymirror.lk/special_edition/World-Environment-Day-2025-Lets-Beat-Plastic-Pollution-Together/452-310756 [DailyFT 05 June 2025]
