Sri Lanka, EU Sign Grant Agreement on Biodiversity and Solid Waste Management

25-Sep-2025

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A grant agreement was signed between Sri Lanka and the European Union to launch a new project aimed at achieving sustainable economic recovery through enhanced biodiversity and solid waste management.

The agreement was officially signed on September 24, by Dr. Harsha Sooriyapperuma, Secretary to the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, on behalf of the Government of Sri Lanka, and by Carmen Moreno, Ambassador of the European Union to Sri Lanka, on behalf of the EU.

This project, jointly developed by the Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government, the Ministry of Environment, and the European Union, will be supported with a grant of €8 million from the EU.

The project will contribute to biodiversity conservation by restoring threatened ecosystems, implementing targeted conservation strategies, and promoting sustainable land-use practices. It will also support environmental protection and public health by addressing the growing need for solid waste management systems.

The initiative aligns with the government’s national policy statement “A Prosperous Country – A Beautiful Life”, which emphasizes the urgent need to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability.

Efforts to build an environmentally friendly and balanced economy have so far not met target outcomes. Therefore, this partnership with the EU marks a significant milestone in strengthening that journey.

Commenting on the EU’s contribution through its “Global Gateway” policy, Ambassador Carmen Moreno stated:

“Biodiversity is one of Sri Lanka’s most valuable resources. Through this project, we will work with the Government of Sri Lanka to strengthen its protection by improving waste management. The EU’s experience, technology, and private sector investment will be key elements of this initiative, offering Sri Lanka the opportunity to align its policies with the international community. Protecting biodiversity contributes to global health and the fight against climate change.”

Expressing heartfelt gratitude for the EU’s valuable support, the Secretary to the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development emphasized that the project aligns well with Sri Lanka’s sustainable development agenda and its commitment to biodiversity protection. 

He further noted that the agreement stands as a testament to the strong and ongoing partnership between Sri Lanka and the EU, marking a milestone in joint efforts for environmental sustainability, inclusive growth, and long-term, balanced economic resilience.