Profitability through cleaner production

Cleaner Production (CP) is an integrated, continuous and preventive environment strategy applied to processes, products and services to increase efficiency, minimize waste and reduce risks to humans and the environment. CP should be an essential part of any comprehensive environmental management system at an enterprise or national level. Cleaner production is now seen as a major approach for industry to achieve environmental improvements while remaining competitive and profitable. CP is being increasingly recognized as a definite route towards sustainable development. CP concepts are growing in popularity throughout the world. European countries and some of the Asian countries such as Thailand, India have already applied this concept appropriately and reaped benefits, which have greater impact on their economy and environment. However, Sri Lankan industries are far behind in this respect. Therefore, there is a strong need to introduce CP concept to local industries. Training and education for cleaner production have become essential for most professions. This paper summarizes some of the outcomes and successful lessons learned from the recent CP projects carried out in Sri Lanka since the case studies are an effective means of demonstrating the economic benefits of Cleaner Production. In addition, this paper also emphasizes the necessity for promoting cleaner production concept through education and training in order to achieve sustainable production of goods and services in Sri Lankan industries and promote sustainable consumption among the members of the community.