ZeroPlastic Colombo launched the Pen Bin Love programme at Anula Vidyalaya, Nugegoda on 12 June 2026, mobilising schoolchildren to confront a rising tide of plastic pen waste.

The event ran from 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. and was organised by the ZeroPlastic Colombo Community. More than 100 school children attended, supported by 7 community members including the President, Vice President and Secretary of the community.

Organisers set out the scale of the problem. Around 120 million plastic pens enter the Sri Lankan market each year. An estimated 91% end up in the environment. Pens take 100 to 500 years to break down and eventually become harmful microplastics.

By teaching simple habits like collecting used pens for recycling, the programme aims to protect wildlife and reduce long term plastic pollution.

Students were introduced to the goals of the ZeroPlastic movement and shown how recycling pens and choosing refillable, wooden or paper alternatives can make a difference. Appointment letters were officially handed to the board of directors of the newly established school club.

The initiative links education with action and highlights schools as high consumption zones where young people can drive change. The activity supports global goals including SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 14: Life Below Water.

The Pen Bin Love project takes a practical step toward eliminating plastic waste, protecting ecosystems and building a more sustainable future through youth engagement.