The Ministry of Environment has urged Sri Lankans to reduce their reliance on single-use plastic water bottles and adopt reusable alternatives as part of efforts to curb plastic pollution.

In a public message, the ministry said a single-use plastic bottle purchased for temporary convenience could remain in the environment for hundreds of years, causing long-term damage.

The ministry encouraged the public to carry reusable water bottles, including environmentally friendly glass bottles or other suitable alternatives, saying changes in everyday habits could make a significant difference.

According to the ministry, measures have already been introduced to reduce the purchase and use of single-use plastic water bottles across state institutions.

A special circular issued through the intervention of the Environment Ministry came into effect on May 31, 2026, directing state institutions to minimise the purchase and use of such bottles.

The ministry said programmes to reduce plastic and polythene use were also continuing across state institutions in line with commitments made on World Environment Day 2025.

It added that arrangements were being made under the amended environmental legislation to introduce nationwide plastic-reduction initiatives in cooperation with industries.

However, the ministry stressed that regulations alone would not be sufficient to address the problem and called for changes in individual behaviour.

“Real change begins with shifting our daily habits,” the ministry said, encouraging people to start by carrying their own reusable water bottles when leaving home.

The ministry said reducing dependence on single-use plastics was necessary to leave a cleaner and greener environment for future generations.