CEA initiates national programme to reduce greenhouse gases and air pollutants

Under President’s direction

By Ifham Nizam

Under the instructions of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, the Central Environmental Authority (CEA) will initiate a national program to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants.

Air pollution is one of the major causes for respiratory diseases among children and elderly in Sri Lanka, with the Covid-19 pandemic aggravating the situation, experts pointed out.

CEA Chairman, S. Amarasinghe said the pilot project aims to create a cleaner environment to achieve the long-term goals of the International Convention on the Rights of the Child.

“The national program will be implemented in all areas where air pollutants enter the atmosphere. This will also encompass pollution from industrial, automotive and energy sectors”, he noted.

The inaugural discussion was held at the CEA on Wednesday under the patronage of Secretary to the Environment Ministry, Dr. Anil Jasinghe, and with the participation of the Chairman and officials of the CEA in accordance with guidelines for the prevention of the spread of Covid-19.

The next discussion on the steps to be taken in this regard is scheduled for Tuesday (July 20) at the Ministry of Environment.

The Sunday Island learns a report on the activities carried out by the CEA in this regard was submitted to the President recently.

It is envisaged to implement the national program from this year onwards under the guidance of the CEA. The initiative aims to reduce the production of greenhouse gases (which contribute to global warming) as well as reduce gaseous pollutants in the atmosphere.