Sri Lanka's to cut 7% GHG emissions in industrial sector by '30: UNIDO

The project was launched in mid-2022. It is led by the country’s ministry of environment, ministry of industries, and ministry of power and energy.

In a recent meeting in Colombo, Sri Lanka’s leaders from across industry met to explore short and long-term energy solutions amidst Sri Lanka’s worst ever energy crisis. More than 100 participants heard from experts and shared their insights into how the economically important industrial sector can move towards more sustainable energy use, according to UNIDO.

An exhibition at the event showcased Sri Lanka’s Energy Savers, people in industry and government who are already helping improve energy use. Those attending were invited to nominate other Energy Savers whose efforts should be recognised—and who could inspire others to take action.

There is considerable potential for reducing industrial energy waste in Sri Lanka’s manufacturing sector by deploying cost-effective technology and management practices. To harness this potential, Sri Lanka’s National Cleaner Production Centre and UNIDO trainers will guide a group of around 70 Energy Savers through an internationally recognised training course on energy management systems.

By the end of the one-year course, participating companies can expect to be on-track to slash up to 25 per cent from their energy bills. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka will have a new cohort of energy consultants able to advise more companies on how to reduce energy waste and save money.

“The industrial sector employs 30 per cent of the national workforce, so it’s essential that we future proof this sector,” said minister for industries, Ramesh Pathirana.

“By decoupling Sri Lanka’s industrial development from the use of imported fossil fuels, we can avoid energy crises in the future and help slow down global climate change,” said Naseer Ahamed, Sri Lanka's minister for the environment.

“Every transformational story needs people who will take on a challenge, run with it, and make change happen. Sri Lanka’s Energy Savers are exactly that: courageous industry leaders and energy practitioners determined to help the country slash industries’ energy waste and greenhouse gas emissions. I look forward to seeing more Energy Savers emerge as the initiative progresses,” said Nicholas Dehod, project manager for UNIDO.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DP)