Sri Lanka, June 1 -- The purchase and use of single-use plastic water bottles in all State institutions have been banned with effect from yesterday, the Environment Ministry stated.

The Public Administration Ministry has informed all heads of State institutions regarding this directive via a special circular issued on May 15.

According to this circular, which was issued with the full intervention and concurrence of the Ministry of Environment, heads of institutions should take immediate steps to prevent the use of single-use plastics within State institutions. In line with the pledge made on World Environment Day 2025, this practical initiative to minimise the use of plastic and polythene will continue to be implemented with the active ...