FINANCIAL CHRONICLE — Sri Lanka is poised to revise its environmental regulations through amendments to the National Environmental Act, as stated by Environment Minister Dammika Patabendi. The proposed changes include the implementation of load-based charging for pollutants and enhancing the legal framework for Strategic Environmental Assessments (SEA) related to extensive development projects.
In an effort to address the escalating pollution of water bodies, the new bill introduces a load-based charging system. This framework will impose fees based on the actual volume of pollutants released into the environment.
A key aspect of the proposed legislation is the requirement for industrial projects to secure environmental recommendations prior to their establishment. Kapila Rajapaksha, Director General of The Central Environmental Authority, emphasized that “with this amendment, it is now a legal obligation to obtain an environmental recommendation relevant to the specific site before initiating any industrial project.”
The bill also formalizes the SEA process, which mandates that environmental impacts of regional development strategies and land-use plans be assessed during the planning phase, rather than after projects have commenced.
“As per the newly introduced regulations, large-scale project investors are required to submit an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) to the Central Environmental Authority within one month of receiving project approval,” Rajapaksha explained, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring throughout the construction period.
In addition, the proposed legislation enforces stricter oversight following project approvals. The EMP will become a legally enforceable document, holding investors accountable. Those who do not adhere to environmental protection measures during construction could face significant fines or imprisonment for up to two years, thereby ensuring that environmental considerations remain a priority even after initial approvals are granted.
The upcoming legislation aims to fill existing gaps in the regulation of chemical and hazardous waste management. Although Sri Lanka had mechanisms in place for chemical monitoring, it lacked a robust legal structure for enforcement. The new provisions will establish a comprehensive licensing system that governs the entire lifecycle of chemicals, encompassing aspects from initial entry and storage to final discharge or export. (Colombo/May11/2026)
