Business

Research, insights add value to Circular Economy Workshop for apparel sector

Published

3 years ago

2023/12/16

Representatives from prominent apparel manufacturers, researchers and stakeholders were part of the event

In response to the multifaceted challenges posed by resource scarcity, environmental impacts and economic concerns, Monash University in partnership with the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF) initiated an insightful Workshop on the Circular Economy (CE) and its profound implications for the apparel industry. The workshop, held recently, served as a catalyst for a collaborative dialogue among prominent apparel manufacturers, researchers and stakeholders.

The central theme underscored the imperative transition from a linear “take-make-use-dispose” business model to a circular one characterized by circular economic flows. This paradigm shift, embedded in the CE ethos, aims to minimise resource inputs and emissions across organizations and their supply networks. The CE approach places a strong emphasis on slowing, narrowing and closing resource loops, thereby enhancing efficiency and significantly reducing waste. Notably, CE practices offer a sustainable and environmentally conscious alternative to traditional production methods.

“”Embracing a circular economy is no longer optional; it’s imperative,” emphasized Professor Amrik Sohal from the Department of Management at Monash Business School, Monash University, a guest speaker at the Workshop. “Sri Lankan companies have been instrumental in driving this change. Yet, the journey to a circular economy, especially for forward-thinking enterprises is challenging. A collective dialogue on adopting circular economy practices is particularly crucial for the apparel industry, a major contributor to global waste and environmental impact.”

The workshop served as a unique platform that brought together leading apparel manufacturers and researchers to exchange insights, share current CE practices and discuss future plans for advancing both theoretical and practical knowledge related to CE in the Sri Lankan Apparel Industry.

This collaborative effort gains particular relevance and timeliness in light of the European Union’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). Legally enacted in 2023, the CSRD is set to commence applicability for larger corporations in the year 2024. The workshop’s discussions were significantly intertwined with the objectives outlined in the CSRD, particularly addressing the EU’s ambitious goal to transition towards more circular apparel production practices by the year 2030.

Operations & Supply Chain Strategy at Loughborough University Professor Jan Godsell opined that, “Apparel companies must redefine their business models, embracing sustainability and ethical practices to navigate the evolving landscape. In the face of these challenges, the future belongs to those who innovate and transform, aligning with evolving regulatory landscape in the EU. We are happy to partner to take this path forward.”

The Workshop organized by Monash University Australia, garnered support from the Made Smarter Innovation and UKRI: ESRC funded InterAct initiative. Local partnerships were instrumental with JAAF, Moratuwa University and the Postgraduate Institute of Management (PIM) actively contributing to the success of the workshop.

The JAAF-led Workshop was a testament to the industry’s commitment to embracing Circular Economy principles. By fostering collaboration, sharing insights and addressing challenges head-on, the groundwork was laid for a more sustainable and circular future for the apparel industry in Sri Lanka and beyond. The Workshop’s outcomes are expected to resonate as a guiding force for the industry’s evolution towards a more environmentally conscious and economically viable Circular Economy.

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Related Topics:insight InterAct Research

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Rs 160 million + diesel discrepancy at Lakvijaya power plant prompts probe

Published

12 hours ago

2026/09/30

Sahan Weerasooriya

The Lakvijaya power plant in Norochcholai.

By Ifham Nizam

A Rs.160 million-plus diesel discrepancy at the Lakvijaya power plant in Norochcholai has triggered an internal investigation, raising questions over the handling of public funds and the controls governing fuel purchased for electricity generation.

The discrepancy surfaced during an internal audit of diesel supplied to the plant from the Kolonnawa and Sapugaskanda fuel terminals, according to senior officials familiar with the inquiry.

The audit has identified five transactions—two in December 2025 and three in January 2026—in which diesel recorded as delivered to the plant allegedly could not be fully accounted for in its physical stocks.

The investigation is now examining whether these were isolated discrepancies or part of a longer-running practice.

One transaction under scrutiny relates to January 16, when records reportedly showed that 10 diesel bowsers had arrived at the plant. Investigators subsequently found indications that the fuel stock corresponded to only nine bowsers.

A storekeeper responsible for the relevant fuel operation has reportedly been temporarily removed from those duties pending the investigation.

A senior official said investigators were reviewing historical records amid indications that similar discrepancies may have occurred over a longer period. If established, the financial exposure could therefore exceed the Rs.160 million currently identified.

The investigation is comparing fuel-terminal dispatch records, tanker movements, plant-entry records, receiving documents and physical stocks to establish exactly how much fuel was dispatched, received and accounted for.

That audit trail will also be critical in determining who authorised, received and certified the disputed consignments, and whether established controls were followed.

Relevant documents were reportedly transferred from Norochcholai to the company’s Colombo head office on September 26 for further examination, with electricity-sector security personnel assisting in the transfer.

The internal audit has also reportedly uncovered expired chemical stocks worth several hundred thousand rupees in the plant’s stores. Investigators are examining whether further inventory-management irregularities occurred.

The matter was also reportedly taken to the Puttalam Police Special Crimes Investigation Unit on September 26.

When contacted by Puttalam-based journalist Hiran Priyankara Jayasinghe for The Island Financial Review, Lakvijaya Power Plant Manager Nalaka Kumara confirmed that an investigation was under way but declined to provide further details.

The financial issue is direct: if the plant paid for diesel it did not receive, public-sector funds were spent without the electricity sector receiving the corresponding fuel.

Business

Sri Lanka Food Processors Association holds 29th Annual General Meeting

Published

12 hours ago

2026/09/30

Sahan Weerasooriya

The Sri Lanka Food Processors Association (SLFPA) successfully convened its 29th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on September 23, 2026, at the Water’s Edge Hotel, Battaramulla. Bringing together key industry stakeholders and member organizations, the event served as a platform to review milestone achievements from the 2025/2026 term and outline strategic priorities for the nation’s food and beverage processing sector.

At the AGM, the new Executive Committee for 2027/2028 was appointed, comprising: Honorary President Aruna Senanayake C.W. Mackie PLC Imme. Past President Thusith Wijesinghe Trans Continental Packaging & Commodities (Pvt) Ltd.

President Elect Nadishan Guruge Meadlee Trading Co. (Pvt) Ltd.

1st Vice President Damitha Perera Forbes & Walkers Commodity Brockers (Pvt) Ltd.

2nd Vice President Rasika Seneviratne Diesel & Motor Engineering PLC 3rd Vice President Deepal De Alwis Neochem International (Pvt) Ltd.

Honorary Secretary Amila Weerasinghe Nestle Lanka Limited.

Asst. SecretaryDineth Alahakoon Country Style Foods (Pvt) Ltd.

Honorary Treasurer Sameera Jayathilaka Westmann Engineering Company (Pvt) Ltd.

Asst. Treasurer Niroshan Dalpethado C D De Fonseka & Sons (Pvt) Limited. In addition to the above office bearers, the following ten Executive Committee Members were appointed:

Sanjeewa De Silva Unilever Sri Lanka Limited Sheran De Alwis MA’S Tropical Food Processing (Pvt) Limited

Thusitha Ekanayake Anods Cocoa (Pvt) Ltd.

Vijitha Govinna Plenty Foods (Pvt) Limited Ms. Praharshi Wickramasekara International Commodity Exports (Pvt) Ltd.

Sanjeewa Niroshan SGS Lanka (Pvt) Ltd. Kushan Amarasinghe Finagle Lanka (Pvt) Ltd.

Rangajeewa Hettiarrachchi Fonterra Brands Lanka (Pvt) Ltd.

Harindra Abeyrathna Vision Technologies International (Pvt) Ltd. Thilina Weerasekara Ceylon Cold Stores PLC

The event was proudly supported by key industry partners, with SGS Lanka (Pvt) Ltd serving as the Platinum Sponsor. Unilever Sri Lanka Ltd. and Nestlé Lanka Ltd. joined as Gold Sponsors, Ceylon Agro Industries – Prima as the Silver Sponsor, while Lanka Exhibition & Conference Services (LECS) and Hero Nature Products (Pvt) Ltd., supported as Bronze Sponsors.

The proceedings concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Hony. Secretary Deepal De Alwis, followed by cocktails and a fellowship networking session, providing an opportunity for members to connect and strengthen industry ties.

Business

Uber brings the ‘business class of back seats’ to Sri Lanka with Uber Black

Published

12 hours ago

2026/09/30

Sahan Weerasooriya

New premium ride option expands Uber’s portfolio from affordable Moto and Tuk rides to premium on-demand travel

Uber announced the launch of Uber Black in Sri Lanka, bringing its premium ride experience to the country for the first time. Designed as the “business class of back seats,” Uber Black combines premium vehicles and highly-rated drivers for riders looking for greater comfort, quality and a more elevated travel experience.

The launch comes as demand for premium products and experiences grows across Sri Lanka, with consumers seeking greater choice and quality in their everyday experiences. Uber Black brings this choice to on-demand mobility, whether for an airport journey, an important business meeting, a special occasion or simply when riders want to travel in greater comfort.