October 18, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka is taking significant steps to promote sustainable consumption through the introduction of refillable systems.
One notable initiative is being spearheaded by Unilever Sri Lanka in collaboration with Vega Innovations and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
Together, they are working to scale up the use of refillable stations across the country, aiming to provide consumers with affordable and eco-friendly alternatives while reducing plastic waste.
These refill stations are part of Vega Innovations’ UFill initiative, which enables consumers to refill Unilever products such as laundry liquids and shampoos, significantly reducing the need for single-use plastic packaging.
By 2027, this initiative aims to prevent more than 128 metric tons of plastic waste from ending up in Sri Lanka’s landfills.
Moreover, consumers can benefit from a 20-30% cost reduction by choosing to refill rather than purchasing new packaging. USAID’s Ocean Plastics Reduction Activity is lending its support through strategic and technical assistance to ensure the success of these efforts.
The partnership was formalized with a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed at Vega Innovations’ headquarters, marking a key milestone in Sri Lanka’s journey towards reducing plastic waste.
This initiative builds upon the existing network of refill stations established by Unilever and Vega Innovations in places like the Colombo Fort Railway Station, Seva Vanitha Budget Centre, and various apartment complexes. There are plans to expand these stations further across the country.
This localized initiative aligns with Unilever’s broader objectives through the CIRCLE Alliance (Catalysing Inclusive, Resilient, and Circular Local Economies), a global collaboration launched by Unilever, USAID, and EY earlier this year.
The CIRCLE Alliance focuses on developing circular economies in countries like India, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines, aiming to address plastic waste challenges globally.
Ali Tariq, Unilever Sri Lanka’s Chairman and CEO, emphasized the company’s commitment to reducing plastic pollution through innovative and sustainable solutions.
He highlighted that their partnership with USAID and Vega Innovations allows Unilever to offer its popular brands like Dove, Lifebuoy, Sunsilk, Sunlight, and Vim to Sri Lankan consumers in a more convenient and sustainable manner.
Dr. Harsha Subasinghe, CEO of Vega Innovations, expressed pride in leading the charge to reduce plastic waste with the UFill initiative. He noted that, with the support of USAID, they can expand their network and offer consumers an environmentally friendly way to lower their plastic footprint.
Ann Bacon, USAID Sri Lanka’s Acting Deputy Mission Director, reiterated the U.S. government’s commitment to reducing plastic waste by supporting practical and scalable solutions.
She noted that the partnership with Unilever and Vega Innovations is a testament to making sustainable consumption a reality in Sri Lanka.
