Flying squads to nab errant polythene producers

by Ananda KANNANGARA

The Central Environmental Authority (CEA) has directed its provincial authorities to deploy flying squads to nab errant polythene manufacturers who defy the Government's ban of manufacturing less than 20 micron polythene papers for local and foreign markets.The manufacturing and selling of polythene papers which are less than 20 micron in density was completely banned by the CEA from August 15 and investigations on offenders who flout the law will be carried out from August 17.

The CEA also strongly advised manufacturers to label their products with the name of the manufacturer, the date of the papers manufactured and most important the density of micron.It is reported that a number of polythene paper manufacturers in the country are still producing low quality polythene papers with the intention of earning higher profits.A recent survey, conducted by the Special Investigation Unit of the CEA, revealed that out of 125 polythene manufacturers in the country, about 60 manufacturers, have not duly obtained their registration from the CEA.

Speaking to the Sunday Observer, CEA, Director General Pasan Gunasena said from August 15, labels on polythene products should also carry the license number of the CEA, the register number of the manufacturing company and the length and the width of the product in millimetres.