I am currently working as a Technical Specialist in Waste Management for World Vision Lanka under the PHINLA project. My main responsibility is the development of waste management business models aimed at livelihood development.
Traditionally, waste management in our country has operated as a service model. Over the past 30 years, I have been involved in developing this service model. My journey began in 1995 with my first project at the Rathnapura Municipal Council, where I initiated a composting project using municipal garbage. Subsequently, I was transferred to the Balangoda Urban Council, where I launched several initiatives, including composting, plastic recycling, fecal sludge treatment technology, and the introduction of the Resource Bank concept in schools and communities.
Following this, I established a Waste Management Training Centre and implemented courses on municipal solid waste operations, providing assistance and training for supervisors. Later, I joined the Ministry of Megapolis and Western Development as a Social Specialist for the Metro Colombo Waste Management Project. During this period, I played a key role as a technical consultant for the establishment of the compost plant in Kelawarapitiya and the sanitary landfill in Aruwakkalu.
After resigning from the government sector, I shifted my focus to developing waste management business models, working closely with resource collectors and Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs).
Through my extensive experience, I have been able to contribute significantly to the evolution of waste management practices in Sri Lanka, moving towards more sustainable and business-oriented models.