Pen Revival: Students Reduce Single Use Plastic at Wayamba University

Date: 7 June 2026

Location: Hostel Canteen, Kuliyapitiya, Wayamba University of Sri Lanka

The Zero Plastic Club of Wayamba University launched the Pen Revival project to encourage reuse and refill of pens as a simple but effective step toward reducing single use plastic on campus. The event engaged students in hands on activities designed to build practical habits, generate conversation, and demonstrate how small actions can lead to meaningful environmental benefit.

Coordinated by Project Head M.D. Indrasiri and Deputy Head B.G.H. Dinesha, the initiative invited participants to submit used pens and form teams of three. Organizers ran interactive challenges that combined education and friendly competition, while student volunteers handled event coordination, photography, and public relations to ensure a smooth, inclusive experience.

The event recognized student leadership and achievement. Winners of the Pen Revival activities were Methsithni Jayathissa, A.M.T.S.T. Aththanayaka, and Kavindra Prathibhani. Their participation showcased teamwork, creativity, and commitment to sustainability.

Impact and learning

Pen Revival delivered several important outcomes beyond the immediate reduction of plastic waste. It created visible campus momentum for sustainable behavior, provided a low barrier entry point for students to adopt reuse practices, and strengthened the role of student led groups in driving environmental change. By framing reuse as practical and social, the project made sustainable choices accessible and attractive.

Scalability and replication

The model used by the Zero Plastic Club is simple to replicate at other universities and community hubs. Key elements that supported success were clear leadership, hands on activities, team based engagement, and visible recognition for participants. These ingredients can be adapted to fit different campus sizes and local contexts, making Pen Revival a strong candidate for wider adoption.

Next steps

The Zero Plastic Club plans to build on this momentum by expanding awareness efforts, integrating refill stations where feasible, and developing follow up activities to measure behavior change over time. Continued student involvement and collaboration with campus services will be essential to translate event level success into sustained practice.

Conclusion

Pen Revival demonstrated that targeted student initiatives can move the needle on plastic reduction while building skills, community, and awareness. The project at Wayamba University is a practical example of how small, well designed actions can foster lasting cultural change toward sustainability.

For more information or to explore partnerships, contact the Zero Plastic Club at Wayamba University of Sri Lanka.