Odel’s Luv SL recognised for aluminium recycling CSR initiative by CEA

Saturday, 15 February 2020 00:03 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

From left: Odel Merchandise Manager Haritha Jayaweera, Odel Divisional Merchandise Manager Chandani Ranaweera, ODEL Head of Buying Division Thilina Dassanayaka, Central Environment Authority Solid Waste Management Director Sarojini Jayasekera

The Central Environmental Authority recently awarded Luv SL by Odel PLC the ‘Melting Point Certification’ for its innovative aluminium recycling initiative, where aluminium waste that congests landfills, pollutes the environment and consumes unsustainable amounts of energy have been recycled to create a range of products such as jewellery, household items and accessories under Luv SL by Odel.

Luv SL collects used aluminium cans in bulk, which in turn are melted down, cast and converted into a range of attractive products that are made available for discerning customers at their outlets.

Although aluminium is the third most abundant element in the earth’s crust, the production of the metal and the subsequent disposal contributes significantly to overall environmental pollution.

“We may not realise it, but aluminium production is a key contributor to environmental pollution. The process of extracting, processing and disposing the metal results in significant levels of carbon emissions, and the entire process consumes an unsustainable amount of energy. The metal is extremely useful, considering its abundant availability, durability, anti-corrosive properties and lightness, yet as it comes with its own disadvantages. As corporates, we have a responsibility to create innovative upcycling processes that address these disadvantages and make the most of this materials,” said a statement from OdEL, which is a subsidiary of the Softlogic Group of Companies.

The statement went on to emphasise that, through this innovative recycling initiative, the carbon footprint of aluminium waste, especially in the form of aluminium cans, will be significantly reduced. As aluminium can be recycled indefinitely, this simple yet effective technology can, in the long run, significantly reduce the energy consumption by reusing the same aluminium multiple times. This will play a key role in creating a sustainable Sri Lanka.

In addition to being environmentally friendly and beneficial, the project also uplifts the lives of the brass sculptors in the Central Province, providing them an additional income and livelihood by showcasing their skills. The legendary brass sculpting techniques, brought down from generation to generation, are being used to melt, cast and upcycle the discarded cans into unique pieces. What is more, with a provision to be upcycled once again, these beautifully hand-crafted products can now be purchased at the Luv SL department located at Odel in Alexandra Place.

The standalone Luv SL stores combine concrete and wood for a modern yet earthy appearance that uses shades of brown, black and silver. The colourful, distinctly tropical materials and motifs imbued in traditional Sri Lankan objects’ d’art have been utilised to produce a wide spectrum of products ranging from casual clothing and accessories to stationery, mugs, picture frames, toys, cosmetics and toiletries, curios and even confectionery retailed under the Luv SL brand.