The Centre for Sustainability Solutions (CSS) of the University of Kelaniya conducted awareness programs on Waste and Energy Management for administrative and non-academic staff on 16^th and 17^th October 2025 at the Auditorium of Staff Development Centre (SDC).

The program aimed to reduce per-capita waste generation and energy consumption by sustainable practices and responsible resource utilization within the university community, reinforcing the university’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

Prof. Mangala Yatawara, Director of the CSS, welcoming the participants, explained the importance of environmental sustainability and how the university community could contribute to building a greener future for the university. Mr. K. K. K. Dharmathilake, the Registrar of the University of Kelaniya, emphasized the importance of efficient waste and energy management in achieving sustainability goals in the university. The Registrar appreciated the contribution made by the CSS in implementing sustainable initiatives, including waste segregation systems, composting programs, biogas production, and renewable energy initiatives across the university. 

Dr. Jehan Seneviratne, the CSS representative of the Faculty of Science, conducted the first session on Energy Management. He primarily focused on improving energy efficiency through the selection of proper appliances and proper maintenance, energy consumption and energy ratings. He also discussed air-conditioning systems, including split, cassette, and central types, emphasizing maintenance practices such as cleaning filters and regulating thermostats to reduce energy waste. Dr. Seneviratne further explained the efficient use of common electrical appliances, including refrigerators, rice cookers, irons, and vacuum cleaners, while sharing simple behavioral changes. He concluded the session, reminding participants that energy management begins with informed decisions, where every small action helps reduce operational costs and environmental impact.

The second session on Waste Management was jointly conducted by Prof. Mangala Yatawara, Director of the CSS, and Dr. Wasanthi Subasinghe, CSS representative of the Faculty of Medicine. Prof. Yatawara highlighted the environmental, social and economic issues of the generation and accumulation of waste at municipalities, and initiatives taken by authorities to manage waste sustainably. She encouraged the participants to minimize per-capita waste generation by adopting sustainable waste management practices and contributing to the university’s broader waste reduction goals. Dr. Subasinghe focused on the dangers of single-use plastics, explaining that microplastic particles are now found in human tissues, placental samples, and arterial plaques with evidence. She emphasized the urgency of reducing plastic use within the university by adopting eco-friendly alternatives, government legislation and university policies. She also discussed the importance of proper management of laboratory waste, referring to the Manual for Safe Handling and Disposal of Laboratory Chemicals and Hazardous Waste published by the University of Kelaniya in 2018. Moreover, she described the university’s ongoing e-waste collection program under the theme “Disposing Electronic Waste Properly, Preserving the Environment”. 

She further encouraged departments to reduce paper waste through digital communication systems, recycling used paper, and collection of plastics and pens for reuse and resale.

The workshop concluded with a strong message of shared responsibility. Participants pledged to apply the knowledge gained to their daily work, reinforcing the University of Kelaniya’s vision of becoming a national leader in sustainability. Through continued efforts led by the CSS, the university remains dedicated to fostering a culture of environmental consciousness and sustainable development.

The programs were attended by administrative and non-academic staff of the University of Kelaniya.