The Central Environmental Authority (CEA) requested all citizens to refrain from using polythene papers and plastic covers to make all kinds of Vesak decorations including big and small lanterns, pandals, banners, posters and other Vesak decorations considering that they will badly affect the environment, rivers, lakes and other waterways.
A recent CEA survey has revealed over seven million tons of non-degradable polythene and plastics are coming through rivers, waterways and streams and ultimately flowing to the ocean that badly affect the ocean living beings including the most important fish population.
Speaking to the Daily News, CEA Chairman Venura Fernando said it is the sole responsibility of people not to use non-degradable polythene papers and plastic sheets for decorations during the forthcoming Vesak season.
The CEA Chairman also said Vesak decorations could be easily made from various degradable raw materials which are aplenty in the country considering that after using them they could be either recycled or burned.
“But, non-degradable polythene and plastics exist in the environment for thousands of years causing serious damage to the environment and fauna and flora”.
He said even the Government has issued a special gazette notification prohibiting the use of polythene and plastics for political, social and cultural events.
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