Polythene: Just say no

The Sri Lanka Association for the Advancement of Science (SLAAS) has applauded Sri Lankan political leaders' decision to eliminate environmental problems caused by the use of non-biodegradable plastic and especially polythene materials, by avoiding their use in the election campaigns.

"We must appreciate the concern for the environment shown by this decision, which is inseparable from concerns for the well-being of Sri Lankan's SLAAS," said in a release.

The release: "However, we wish to stress upon our leaders that not all their supporters share their commitment, and that many of them do not abide by the decision of their leaders. The use of polythene and other non-biodegradable materials in election campaigning is highly visible in every part of the country. This may convey a wrong message and an undesirable set of values to the younger generation. Furthermore, it is an added burden on the local bodies, both in terms of human resources and money, to clean up the pollution caused by the use of these materials. We therefore urge all politicians to be mindful of this, and to strongly discourage their supporters from using those materials in all work associated with campaigns."