MYGroup, a prominent UK-based waste management and recycling company, has launched an ambitious sustainable textile production initiative in Sri Lanka. The project, which will take place across four provinces—North West, North Central, Uva, and Eastern—aims to empower local communities while contributing to a socially and environmentally responsible supply chain for the company’s future products.
The multi-faceted initiative is led by MYGroup’s ReFactory division, which focuses on sustainable textile manufacturing and recycling. Central to the project is the reintroduction of cotton cultivation in Sri Lanka for the first time since the 1970s. This initiative also seeks to revitalise traditional artisan skills, particularly in rural communities, and promote planet-friendly innovations in fabric production.
In addition to these textile-focused efforts, MYGroup is establishing a recycling hub to address the growing issue of ocean plastic pollution along Sri Lanka’s coastlines. The company’s aim is to reduce the environmental impact of global textile production and contribute to a circular economy, in line with its commitment to the Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP)’s Textiles 2030 agreement.
MYGroup has partnered with Fibershed Sri Lanka, a non-profit consultancy focused on sustainable, localised textile production systems. This partnership will help ensure that the Sri Lankan initiative employs local artisans and workers, providing fair compensation and fostering the long-term growth of the country’s textile and fashion industries.
The initiative will focus on building a responsible, scalable supply chain for MYGroup’s future product lines. This will involve using regenerative agricultural practices, promoting sustainable textile production, and supporting community-based artisans, particularly women, working in traditional settings. MYGroup’s Sri Lanka project is designed not only to address environmental challenges but also to create new commercial opportunities that align with consumer demand for authenticity, sustainability, and social impact.
Steve Carrie, Group Director at MYGroup, explained, “As the seeds are planted—both literally and figuratively—on our Sri Lanka project, MYGroup is forging a new path for planet-friendly textile production. By supporting skilled artisans, particularly women, and preserving the cultural heritage of Sri Lanka, we aim to create long-term, positive change in both communities and ecosystems.”
Thilina Premjayanth, founder of Fibershed Sri Lanka, welcomed the collaboration, stating, “Our partnership with MYGroup exemplifies our commitment to projects that prioritise regenerative agriculture, sustainable practices, and community empowerment. Together, we aim to create a global benchmark for ethical, eco-friendly production.”
Ms Neranjala Karunaratne, Regional Director at the Department of Industrial Development in Sri Lanka, highlighted the project’s potential to drive prosperity. “This collaboration not only preserves Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage but also revitalises our industries, contributing to sustainable economic growth and improved livelihoods for our communities,” she said.
Sophie Scanlon, Specialist at WRAP, commended MYGroup’s efforts, saying, “We look forward to learning more about these exciting projects, which promise to benefit the local environment, community, and economy.”
Through this innovative initiative, MYGroup hopes to establish Sri Lanka as a leader in ethical and eco-friendly textile production while providing lasting benefits for both the environment and local communities.