The Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) and the BOI recently concluded a series of meetings and fact-finding visits to the BOI zones and find new opportunities for fruitful long-term bilateral relationships. The NetZero commitment of the nations and industries and sustainable strategic planning of the BOI has paved the way to develop its zones management to attract green and digital FDIs’ to the country hence it is evident that Sri Lanka needs world-class collaborators to reach these significant strategically important key measurements. Therefore, the Chinese Academy of Sciences’ world view and vision of collaboration with the nation and its mission of research and innovation and further developing a merit-based learning ecosystem will enable the BOI to leapfrog the process of developing a greener and sustainable zones management system.  In the context of the near future, both parties are looking forward to working together and developing a synergistic relationship. 

The Chinese Academy of Science has a mandate to explore and harness high technology and the natural sciences for the benefit of China and the world. Comprising a comprehensive research and development network, a merit-based learned society, and a system of higher education, CAS brings together scientists and engineers from China and around the world to address both theoretical and applied problems using world-class scientific and management approaches.

CAS has further defined its development strategy by emphasizing greater reliance on democratic management, openness, and talent in the promotion of innovative research. The academy aims for a bright future as one of the world’s top S&T research and development organizations. 

Drawing from the BOI’s previous insightful discussions with CAS, it has identified several pivotal activities that will constitute the foundation of fruitful collaboration. These activities hold inherent advantages that align harmoniously with our shared goals and finally reach a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between CAS and BOI During the meeting CAS will support the BOI in fulfilling the undermentioned projects.

 

Integrated Eco-Industrial Park Concept: 

Following the National Determined Contributions (NDCs), BOI is committed to consulting with CAS to craft an integrated eco-industrial park concept. By aligning our strategies with sustainable practices, we will bolster the park’s environmental footprint and play an active role in fulfilling national sustainability objectives.

Enhanced Water Quality Testing Facilities: 

To ensure the highest standards of water quality, BOI envisioned creating a specialized facility dedicated to testing the drinking water quality and treated water quality of BOI enterprises. This could involve the establishment of a fully equipped water quality laboratory on the premises of Kandy Industrial Park.

 

Pilot Model MBR Treatment Plant: 

To undertake the establishment of a pilot model Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) treatment plant for pharmaceutical effluent. This visionary initiative will serve as a practical testing ground, potentially revolutionizing wastewater treatment practices in the pharmaceutical sector and enabling opportunities to enhance the capacity of existing pharmaceutical manufacturing as the location is demarcated as a sensitive area.

 

Capacity Building for BOI Staff and Enterprises: 

These programs will offer comprehensive insights into water technology, environmental management, and sustainable practices. Empowering BOI staff and enterprises, these initiatives will enable them to address industry-specific challenges effectively.

 

Zero Liquid Discharge Concept Implementation: 

An ambitious undertaking involves applying the Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) concept to the BOI industries in the context of Pharmaceutical and life sciences manufacturing sectors initially. This exemplifies our commitment to advance and environmentally responsible manufacturing processes.

 

Water Quality Monitoring in treated Wastewater and Research in the Mahaweli River Basin around the Kandy Industrial PARK 

Through extensive research, we seek to enhance water quality in the Mahaweli River Basin. Dedication to this cause is rooted in our vision for a healthier environment and a more sustainable future—the establishment of an online water quality monitoring system for river water quality monitoring stations. As a model project and latter will expand to other zones with integrated water quality monitoring systems for wastewater treatment plants. 

 

Internship Programs and Research Opportunities for the UoP: 

By exposing them to real-world industrial practices within the park, BOI aims to nurture young talents and provide them with practical insights. Additionally, this will pave the way for research programs closely supervised by BOI and CAS experts. This academic-industry fusion will offer students the chance to explore cutting-edge research initiatives and contribute directly to sustainable advancements.