The offenders will be subject to a fine of not more than Rs 10,000 and/or a jail sentence of not more than two years, the Central Environment Authority said.

The CEA gave a grace period up to January 31 before implementing this law strictly island wide.

Furthermore , the Central Environment Authority said obtaining EPL is mandatory to all type of Polythene and Plastic products manufacturers due to Extra Ordinary Gazette notification no. 153/16 of 2008.01.25 and 1534/18 of 2008.02.01 which is published under Act No. 47 of 1980 amended by act No.53 of 2000 and 56 of 1988.

Moreover, all type of Polythene and Plastics importers were requested to register under Central Environmental Authority on or before 20. January 2016.

Central Environmental Authority kindly requests valuable support of all citizens to implement the regulation for Sustainable Environmental management of Sri Lanka.