Abstract:
The apparel export sector is a significant contributor to the Sri Lankan economy that
accounts for a contribution of 32% of the gross domestic production (GDP) in 2018 and
48% of total exports according to 2022 records. However, Sri Lanka’s textile and apparel
sector generates waste in large quantities. This study aimed at identifying the main
waste streams and their average waste generation in Biyagama Export Processing Zone
(BEPZ), Sri Lanka. The study also focused on waste characteristics and waste disposal
methods implemented in BEPZ. Three different sub-sectors of the textile and apparel
industry were selected for the study, which comprised five fabric mills, five garment
washing and dyeing plants, and ten apparel manufacturing plants. Questionnaires,
interviews, and field observations were used for the data gathering process. Results
revealed that the average total waste generation was 2376.42 t/year in a fabric mill,
745.88 t/year in a garment washing and dyeing plant, and 429.38 t/year in an apparel
manufacturing plant. The average hazardous waste generation percentages in a fabric
mill and a garment washing and dyeing plant were 48% and 78%, respectively. Effluent
treatment plant (ETP) sludge was identified as the most common form of waste type
in fabric mills and garment washing and dyeing plants. However, fabric and yarn waste
were the most common waste type in apparel manufacturing plants. Ninety percent
of ETP sludge was incinerated, with the remaining 10% being disposed of in landfills.
Fabric and yarn waste are reused, exported for recycling and landfilling in percentages of
30%, 20%, and 50%, respectively. The study identified waste types that have monetary
value, in each sub-sector. It was revealed that there are significant opportunities for
waste utilization within circular economy prospects.
