PLASTIC WASTE AND THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY: COMMUNITY BASED EVIDENCE FROM MANNAR, SRI LANKA

Abstract

The intense use of plastics and linear waste systems has increased the accumulation of plastic in the environment. Such accumulation is a leading global issue, which suggests a shift to a circular economy focusing on recycling and waste reduction. This study examines the circular economy strategies for plastic waste management, recycling, upcycling, biodegradable alternatives, and eco-designs. The study was conducted as a case study from Mannar District in Sri Lanka on the collection and disposal of plastics among 147 respondents across six coastal fishery communities. The waste disposal sites were mapped to provide spatial patterns across the selected communities. The results showed that high levels of plastic waste originating from fisheries, households, and marine debris were due to poor disposal practices, limited infrastructure, and low public awareness. Among the identified disposal methods, illegal dumping (24.1%) and burning (17.9%) were the most prevalent. Additionally, 444 ± 17 kg Polyethene Terephthalate (PET) bottles were recovered from 24 fishery sites per month. The survey in Mannar District revealed widespread informal disposal practices and a considerable accumulation of marine plastics. However, this study highlighted strong community willingness to participate in structured waste management solutions. These findings reveal the importance of expanding similar assessments across Sri Lanka to develop effective strategies. Such efforts are essential for advancing a balanced and sustainable national plastic waste management framework grounded in circular economy principles.