Empowering Women, Transforming Communities: Gunadamin Elephant House, USAID, and Viridis Drive Recycling Innovation in Batticaloa

Batticaloa, March 12, 2024 – Gunadamin Elephant House of Ceylon Cold Stores PLC (CCS), the United  States Agency for International Development (USAID), and Viridis Recycling recognized the contributions  of women waste collectors to economic empowerment and environmental wellbeing at a ceremony at  the Selvanayagam Memorial Hall in Batticaloa. The event, which celebrated Sri Lanka's first women-led  plastic recyclable collection network and material recovery facility (MRF), featured the handover of  e-bikes for plastic waste collection. Funded by Gunadamin Elephant House, these e-bikes mark a  significant step forward in enhancing waste management efficiency and reducing environmental impact.  

Speaking at the event, Mr. Daminda Gamlath, President, Consumer Foods Sector John Keells Holdings PLC  (JKH) said, “This e-bike represents our commitment to innovative solutions in environmental stewardship  and community empowerment. We believe these initiatives will sustainably increase plastic collection and  affirm our commitment to ESG goals, as exemplified by our partnership with Kaviya Self Development  Women’s Centre."  The half-day event saw the attendance of dignitaries to support these women's achievements, including  Douglas E. Sonnek, Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy; the Governor of the Eastern Province,  Hon. Senthil Thondaman; and other senior government officials. 

A plastic collection drive and a street drama performance with the theme of “transforming waste into  wealth” took place before the ceremony. Douglas E. Sonnek, Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy, highlighted the broader impact of the  initiative, stating, “U.S. assistance to increase income generation opportunities for Sri Lankan women  strengthens prospects for economic growth and benefits families, communities, and the country. The  United States is partnering to provide equal economic opportunities to unleash women’s full potential, because women’s economic security and inclusion are key to breaking the cycle of poverty.” 

The Governor of the Eastern Province, Hon. Senthil Thondaman, echoed these sentiments, expressing  appreciation for the organizations involved and applauding the women in Batticaloa for their efforts. His  support underscores the project's significance as a powerful example of community-led efforts driving  significant environmental and social change. Active across five coastal provinces, these plastic waste collection networks have significantly improved  the economic status of rural women. Demonstrating a circular economic model, this activity emphasizes  the efficient and sustainable use of resources, recovery, and regeneration. Supported by Gunadamin  Elephant House, USAID, and Viridis, the initiative trains women to identify and collect recyclable waste, 

John Keells Group - Confidential 

including plastics, and incorporate them into the recycling chain. It has created approximately 200 income  generation opportunities and increased the household incomes of women waste collectors.  In a testament to the project's impact, Rohini Dharshan, a woman waste collector from Batticaloa  supported by the Kaviya Self-Development Women’s Center, which played a pivotal role in encouraging  local women to join this initiative said, "This project turned trash into an unexpected source of income for  me. I am now not just tidying up the environment, I am also earning by doing it." 

 About the Organizations  

Ceylon Cold Stores: Ceylon Cold Stores PLC, manufacturer and distributor of the Elephant House brand,  is a subsidiary of John Keells Holdings PLC (JKH), the largest conglomerate listed on the Colombo Stock  Exchange, operating with over 70 companies in 7 diverse industry sectors. With a 150-year legacy,  Elephant House is a cherished brand, deeply ingrained in Sri Lankan households, known for its  trustworthiness and commitment to societal betterment. Gunadamin Elephant House stands as the  Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arm of Elephant House, dedicated to a range of initiatives designed  for the betterment of society. This project falls under the Waste Management pillar, which, together with  the Community and Sustainable Sourcing pillars, forms the holistic approach of Gunadamin Elephant  House towards sustainable and responsible practices. 

USAID is the development agency of the United States Government primarily responsible for foreign aid.  USAID has provided development and humanitarian assistance worldwide for more than 60 years. This  initiative was funded through USAID Ocean Plastics Reduction Activity. With its five-year focus, the activity  is committed to reducing environmental plastics, strengthening solid waste management practices, and  boosting recycling initiatives in both Sri Lanka and Maldives. This collaboration is symbolic of USAID's  broader mission: championing environmental stewardship while driving socioeconomic empowerment. 

Viridis is a leading recycling and waste management company founded in 2005, primarily focused on PET  bottle recycling and processing various plastics in Sri Lanka. With over 17 years of experience, they have  expanded their services to include electronic waste management, hazardous waste disposal, water  treatment plant maintenance, and secure document/product destruction. By offering high-quality  recycled materials and comprehensive waste solutions, Viridis contributes to both environmental  sustainability and financial savings for businesses. 

Established in 2002, "Kaviya" focuses on empowering disadvantaged communities, particularly women,  by building self-confidence and leadership skills. Initially serving in all 14 divisional secretariat divisions in  Batticaloa, they provided crucial support during crises like the tsunami and conflict periods. Today, Kaviya  continues its work, emphasizing women's entrepreneurship development across these areas, aiming to  improve market access and foster economic growth.