Deadline: 29-May-2026
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is inviting grant applications to support the development of a sustainable municipal solid waste management system in Kurunegala, Sri Lanka. The project focuses on improving waste collection, recycling, resource recovery, and low-carbon waste solutions to reduce pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
The assignment includes technical studies, feasibility analysis, environmental and social compliance, and system design for integrated waste management infrastructure. Funding support includes LKR 1,000,000 for waste audits and LKR 5,000,000 for site investigations, with a total project duration of 7 months.
What Is the Kurunegala Waste Management Project?
This UNDP initiative aims to develop a modern, integrated municipal solid waste management system for Kurunegala city. The programme responds to growing challenges caused by:
- Rapid urbanization
- Population growth
- Limited waste infrastructure
- Weak recycling and segregation systems
The goal is to create a scalable, low-carbon waste management model aligned with Sri Lanka’s environmental and climate commitments.
Key Objectives of the Project
The project focuses on:
- Improving municipal solid waste management systems
- Reducing environmental pollution
- Cutting greenhouse gas emissions
- Promoting recycling and resource recovery
- Strengthening institutional capacity
- Ensuring environmental and social compliance
- Developing low-carbon waste solutions
Scope of Work
Baseline Waste System Assessment
The selected firm will conduct a full assessment of:
- Waste generation and characterization
- Collection coverage and efficiency
- Transport and logistics systems
- Disposal methods and landfill practices
This forms the foundation for system redesign.
Integrated Waste Management Design
The project will develop a complete system including:
- Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs)
- Organic waste processing systems (composting and biogas)
- Recycling and resource recovery systems
- Treatment solutions for residual waste
The system must prioritize low-carbon and sustainable technologies.
Feasibility and Planning Studies
The assignment includes detailed analysis of:
- Technical feasibility
- Financial viability
- Institutional capacity
- Regulatory compliance
It also includes development of:
- Public–private partnership (PPP) models
- Business and operational frameworks
Environmental and Social Requirements
The project requires full compliance with:
- Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA)
- Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP)
Additional responsibilities include:
- Identifying required regulatory approvals
- Ensuring compliance with national and international standards
- Assessing environmental and community impacts
Stakeholder Engagement and Field Work
The selected firm will:
- Conduct stakeholder consultations and workshops
- Organize field visits and community discussions
- Work closely with government agencies and the Project Management Unit
- Coordinate with the Project Coordinator for reporting and supervision
Site Investigations and Technical Studies
The assignment includes limited field-based technical work such as:
- Site validation surveys
- Geotechnical assessments
- Laboratory testing
- Waste audits and analysis
These activities will support infrastructure planning and system design.
Funding Details
The programme provides:
- LKR 1,000,000 for waste audits and related non-labour costs
- LKR 5,000,000 for site investigations, surveys, and laboratory testing
Important details:
- Total assignment duration: 7 months
- Reporting authority: Project Coordinator under Project Management Unit
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants typically include:
- Consulting firms
- Environmental engineering companies
- Research and technical institutions
- Waste management experts
- Development and sustainability consultancies
Applicants must demonstrate:
- Experience in waste management systems
- Technical expertise in environmental engineering
- Capacity for feasibility and infrastructure studies
- Experience in stakeholder engagement and ESIA processes
How to Apply
- Review UNDP procurement and assignment requirements.
- Prepare a technical proposal covering waste system design and feasibility studies.
- Include environmental and social compliance methodology.
- Demonstrate experience in similar waste management projects.
- Submit financial and technical proposals through UNDP procurement channels.
- Participate in evaluation and selection process.
Key Deliverables
The selected firm will deliver:
- Baseline waste management assessment report
- Integrated waste system design
- Feasibility study report
- ESIA and ESMP documentation
- Implementation and business model framework
- Stakeholder consultation reports
FAQ
What is the goal of this project?
To develop a sustainable, low-carbon municipal solid waste management system for Kurunegala, Sri Lanka.
Who is funding the project?
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
How long is the project duration?
7 months.
What is included in the funding?
Funding covers waste audits, site investigations, surveys, and laboratory testing.
What systems will be developed?
Material recovery, composting, biogas, recycling, and residual waste treatment systems.
Conclusion
The UNDP Kurunegala Solid Waste Management initiative supports the creation of a modern, integrated, and environmentally sustainable waste management system in Sri Lanka. The project combines technical design, feasibility studies, and environmental compliance to build a scalable low-carbon model that improves public health, reduces pollution, and supports climate goals.
For more information, visit UNDP.