The Provincial Level Strategic Action Plan for Solid Waste Management (SWM) in the Northern Province is a key initiative under the Capacity Development for Local Government (CDLG) Project, implemented by UNDP Sri Lanka with funding from the European Union (EU). This plan seeks to modernize and strengthen SWM across local authorities in Jaffna, Kilinochchi, Mannar, Mullaitivu, and Vavuniya, addressing critical environmental and public health concerns.

The assessment highlights major challenges, including insufficient waste collection, open dumping, and a lack of recycling and composting facilities. Infrastructure gaps and financial constraints further limit the effectiveness of local authorities in handling waste efficiently.

To tackle these issues, the strategic plan proposes a holistic approach with actions such as waste segregation at the source, improved collection and disposal methods, expansion of composting and recycling initiatives, and exploring waste-to-energy solutions. The plan also emphasizes public-private partnerships (PPP), policy enforcement, and community engagement to ensure long-term sustainability.

Aligned with Sri Lanka’s environmental policies and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 11), this initiative aims to create cleaner and more resilient communities in the Northern Province. Readers are encouraged to download the full report to explore detailed strategies and implementation frameworks for transforming waste management in the region.