Refrain from using polythene, plastic for Vesak decorations – CEA

The Central Environmental Authority (CEA) requests all citizens to refrain from using polythene and plastic to make Vesak decorations, including lanterns, pandals, banners and posters, 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-biodegradable polythene and plastic comes through rivers, waterways and streams and ultimately flows to the ocean.

Speaking to the Daily News, CEA Chairman Venura Fernando said it is the sole responsibility of people to not use non-biodegradable polythene and plastic for decorations in the forthcoming Vesak season.

The CEA Chairman also said Vesak decorations could be easily made from various biodegradable raw materials which are aplenty in the country, considering that after using them they could be either recycled or burned.

“But, non-biodegradable polythene and plastic exist in the environment for thousands of years causing serious damage to fauna and flora,” Fernando said.

He said even the government has issued a gazette notification prohibiting the use of polythene and plastic for political, social and cultural events.

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