EU Switch-Asia kicks off 2014-2016 support program

Monday, 7 April 2014 00:25 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The highly beneficial EU Switch-Asia initiative’s 2014-2016 program has been launched to mitigate climate change and promote economic growth through biogas. The European Union by targeting Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), consumers and public authorities through its EU Switch-Asia Program, has contributed more than EUR 6 million since 2009 to four different projects in Sri Lanka. EU Switch-Asia Program is at the forefront of strengthening policies on sustainable consumption and production, which has been made possible under the active leadership and participation of the Government of Sri Lanka.

The fourth and recently started initiative has witnessed a contribution of EUR 665,000 to a project implemented by the organisation People in Need in collaboration with the Sri Lankan partner –Janathakshan. Executed during the years 2014-2016, it will be a significant step towards tapping into the unlocked potential of biogas as a reliable and clean source of energy for both the private sector and households. Speaking on the inaugural workshop of this EU Switch-Asia initiative, Ambassador of the European Union David Daly said: “Climate change is a long-term threat that calls for a global response. We already have a significant body of legislation governing environmental issues in Europe. The success of these initiatives points to the implementation of innovative undertakings. But more important is the significant role of people through their determination to make a difference. This is the fourth EU Switch-Asia project to be implemented in Sri Lanka and it reflects our commitment to the protection of environment, while engaging in economic growth. It builds on previous projects in the hospitality sector. I am confident that this new initiative will reap great benefits for the environment and the people of Sri Lanka alike.” The project aims firstly at assisting SMEs enhance technical capacity in the manufacture and installation of biogas technologies. Secondly, SMEs in the hotel industry and households will be directly assisted and will benefit from biogas systems that feed on kitchen and other biodegradable waste. It is expected that this project will lead not only to the application of sound environmental practices, but also provide an alternative source of energy for cooking resulting in significant cost efficiency. The switch to energy efficient technology will be complemented by supporting micro-finance institutions in developing mechanisms so as to provide loans for bio-gas installations to SMEs and households. Additionally, Janathakshan, a key player in the establishment of the Lanka Biogas Association, will assist the institutional strengthening of existing national organisations involved in biogas technologies.