Empowering University of Peradeniya Undergraduates through PET Collection. The University of Peradeniya and Ceylon Cold Stores (CCS), a subsidiary of John Keells Holdings, have entered into a landmark agreement to launch a PET bottle collection and recycling initiative. The program was coordinated by the Center for Environmental Sustainability (CES) of the University as part of their waste management initiative. This collaboration marks a significant step towards PET recycling at the University of Peradeniya. The agreement, signed on August 15, 2024, formalizes the joint commitment of the two institutions to promote environmental sustainability through responsible waste management. Under the project, CCS provided 10 PET collection bins to be placed in each faculty of the University. Selected student societies will be given the responsibility of overseeing the PET collection in each faculty. These collected bottles will then be transported to recycling facilities, where they will be processed and converted into reusable materials. The involved societies will receive a monetary incentive for their role. Depending on the collection rate, each society will be paid LKR 30,000 or more every other month. Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Peradeniya, Prof. Terrence Madhujith, highlighted the importance of the partnership. “This collaboration is a critical step towards creating a cleaner and more sustainable environment for future generations. The University of Peradeniya is proud to partner with Ceylon Cold Stores in this endeavor, and we are committed to ensuring the success of this project.” CCS, known for its flagship brand Elephant House, has been at the forefront of promoting sustainability within the beverage industry. Senior Vice President of Ceylon Cold Stores, Mr. Sanjeewa Jayasundara, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “We are excited to work with the University of Peradeniya on this initiative. As a responsible corporate citizen, CCS is dedicated to reducing our environmental footprint and contributing to the well-being of our communities.”
