Global beverage has grown to become one of the most influential players in the Sri Lankan beverage industry. The company is responsible for the manufacturing, bottling, distribution, and marketing of a range of products in the country. These include globally recognized carbonated drinks along with other product lines. The company’s business philosophy is driven by three key pillars: sustainability, innovation, and community. It takes pride in being not just a business entity but also a responsible corporate citizen. Its sustainability efforts include initiatives in water replenishment, waste management, PET plastic recycling, and renewable energy integration. Has incorporated solar energy and water-saving technologies, aligning with global sustainability goals. From launching electric waste-collection vehicles to hosting plastic collection drives and creating awareness on recycling, the company has demonstrated an active role in solving community and environmental challenges.
2 Adoption of Green Supply Chain Practices,
Company has pledged to accomplish its goal of becoming “water neutral,” which means that it will return to the natural world the same quantity of water that it uses in the production process. This is something that can be accomplished in a variety of ways, such as through watershed projects, plant water efficiency, and programs that are designed to increase water access in communities.By utilizing its Sustainable Agriculture Guiding Principles (SAGP), the company ensures that essential components such as sugar, citrus, and coffee are sourced in an ethical manner utilizing these principles. In order to accomplish this, it is necessary to collaborate with local farmers and suppliers in order to ensure the maintenance of fair labor practices, the preservation of biodiversity, and the utilization of environmentally friendly agricultural practices.Has invested in the modernization of its manufacturing plants to increase their energy efficiency and lower their water use. These plants use cutting-edge technology to track and maximize resource use. These plants also often include solar energy among their many other renewable sources.Several plants are LEED-certified, which qualifies them for world standards for environmental design and energy efficiency. This certification confirms their dedication to environmentally friendly building techniques.Has started using hybrid trucks and putting route optimization tools into use in order to reduce its environmental effect and save fuel use.The business makes drinks locally, so there is no need for long-distance travel. This enables the business to lower its carbon emissions and assist the nearby economy.Their logistics operations have included the introduction of cars that are both fuel-efficient and powered by alternative energy sources as part of their long-term plan for lowering carbon emissions.
3 Internal & External Challenges
despite being a subsidiary of a world-renowned business, must operate in a local setting that possesses certain unique internal and external challenges. These not only influence day-to-day operations but also the ability of the company to realize its Green Supply Chain Management (GSCM) goals to the best of its capabilities.Although economies of scale globally, in Sri Lanka the company experiences high operational costs driven by energy prices, raw material import dependency, and currency fluctuations. Local inflation also drives production and logistics costs up, and cost optimization is a continuous challenge. Greenfield improvements such as introducing solar power or water treatment facilities need substantial up front investment, which could be difficult to justify in an unpredictable economic climate.It is difficult to operate in Sri Lanka’s regulatory landscape. While some government policies support sustainability, their enforcement can be sporadic. supply chain and long-term planning can be disrupted by environmental clearance delays or unexpected changes in import/export tariffs for sustainable materials. Furthermore, policies related to plastic bans or sugar taxes evolve rapidly, adding to strategic uncertainty.
4 Innovative Suggestions for Sustainability
4.1 Gamified Recycling for Consumers
Problem- Low Consumer Awareness
Customer awareness of recycling practices remains low alongside their limited participation. A mobile application and USSD-based gaming experience should be introduced to enhance recycling. The program allows consumers to get points by delivering PET bottles at collection spots through QR code scanning or basic SMS verification. These points enable them to claim discounts and branded company merchandise. The outcome enhances recycling participation rates and customer brand commitment levels. The company should expand the ‘Buddy’ application platform to reach existing consumers despite its current status, but they can use the platform to support recycling efforts.
4.2 Solar Panel Leasing for Retailers
Problem Addressed: High operational costs and dependence on fossil fuels
The plan proposes a solar panel leasing initiative for small storeowners particularly those in remote locations which allows them to energize street fridges and businesses through clean power sources. The organization should align with solar start-ups to provide financing support for the startup costs. Solar panel leasing in the distribution network enables energy consumption reduction throughout all areas. This solution requires initial medium investment, but partners will help share the expenses which results in eventual financial benefits.
4.3 Micro-Training Hubs for Sustainability
Problem: Faces a challenge with skills and training deficiencies.
Mobile-based short training modules together with sustainability bootcamps should be organized quarterly for the factory workforce and logistics employees. Use gamification, storytelling, and incentives. This approach speeds up the process of employees utilizing environmental practices within the organization. Using free or low-cost LMS platforms enables low-cost delivery of this solution.
5 Conclusion
demonstrates successful localization of global sustainability principles. Shows its community and environmental leadership by implementing a full range of Green Supply Chain Management principles which include water conservation efforts and sustainable farming and renewable energy deployment together with waste management systems. In order to strengthen sustainability performance despite internal and external obstacles.should implement low-cost innovation approaches combining gamified recycling with AI-operated logistics and micro-training outlets alongside solar-powered retail solutions. The organization will achieve greater stakeholder involvement as well as operational effectiveness alongside sustained environmental resilience through accepting innovative solutions.