In the peaceful suburb of Pelawatte, Battaramulla, a group of young activists from The Overseas School of Colombo (OSC), affectionately known as the Geckos, has taken a stand against the pressing issue of plastic pollution. Motivated by a desire for cleaner air and a healthier environment, these students have embarked on a grassroots campaign to tackle the pervasive problem of plastic burning in their community.

Concerned about the harmful effects of toxic fumes from burning plastics, the Geckos initiated weekly “street-sweeps” in the vicinity of their school. Armed with gloves and determination, they diligently combed the streets, collecting discarded waste and identifying key areas where household solid waste was being irresponsibly disposed of and subsequently incinerated.

Realising the limitations of merely collecting and disposing of the waste, the Geckos sought a more sustainable solution. A visit to the nearby Viridis Recycling centre opened their eyes to the value of PET bottles, which could be recycled for profit. Encouraged by this discovery, the Geckos shifted their focus to specifically targeting PET bottles during their street-sweeps.

Their efforts yielded tangible results, both environmentally and economically. Not only did the streets become cleaner, but the Geckos also earned income from the recycled plastic, demonstrating the potential for waste management to be both environmentally conscious and financially viable.

As the initiative gained momentum, the Geckos found themselves supported by an increasingly engaged community. Residents joined in the street-sweeps, acknowledging the positive impact of the Geckos’ actions on their surroundings. With each passing week, the group’s efforts expanded, encompassing participants of all ages, from Grade 1 students to seniors, teachers, parents, and neighbours.

Through their consistent dedication, the Geckos have witnessed a visible reduction in plastic “hotspots” and air pollution in their neighbourhood. Their commitment to environmental stewardship has not only improved the local landscape but has also fostered a sense of pride and purpose among participants.

Senaka Samarasundera, the leader of the OSC Gecko street-sweepers, shared his perspective on the journey: “The whole experience has been incredibly rewarding. Our goal is to engage the entire community in our efforts to extinguish these harmful plastic hotspots once and for all”.

The OSC Geckos’ grassroots activism serves as a testament to the power of youth-led initiatives in effecting positive change. By taking proactive steps to address environmental challenges, these young advocates are not only transforming their community but also inspiring others to join them in their quest for a greener, cleaner neighbourhood.

As OSC continues to champion sustainability initiatives, including being the first and only school in Sri Lanka to achieve the prestigious Eco-Schools Green Flag Award, the Geckos’ efforts stand as a shining example of the school’s commitment to environmental conservation and community engagement.