On 8th January, the ZeroPlastic Movement continued its journey to the heart of Sri Lanka’s artisan communities with the , held at the Vidatha Hall in Matale. Set against a backdrop of rich cultural heritage, the gathering highlighted the deep connection between traditional craftsmanship and environmental stewardship.

Artisans from the region came together to discuss their everyday realities; limited access to modern markets, lack of branding support, and increasing pressure from mass-produced plastic goods that dominate consumer spaces. Many shared how their eco-friendly products struggle to compete, not because of quality, but because of visibility and affordability challenges.

The Matale session emphasized collaboration and problem-solving. Discussions explored how artisans could be supported through skill enhancement, design innovation, and fair market linkages, while preserving the authenticity of their craft. ZeroPlastic also introduced its broader vision of creating structured platforms that value sustainability as a strength, not a limitation.

What stood out most was the pride artisans took in their work. Each product represented patience, heritage, and harmony with nature; qualities often missing in fast, plastic-driven consumption.

The Matale Artisan Meetup reinforced ZeroPlastic’s commitment to inclusive sustainability. By placing artisans at the center of the conversation, the movement took another step toward building a future where environmentally responsible craftsmanship is protected, promoted, and fairly rewarded.