Sri Lanka aims to increase the share of land allocated for industrial development from the current 0.03% to at least 1% by 2030, Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development Minister Sunil Handunnetti said.He made these remarks at the Presidential Environment Awards Ceremony 2026, highlighting land constraints as a major challenge facing industrialists and the need to balance industrial development with environmental conservation.The Minister said many industrialists faced difficulties in obtaining adequate land to expand their businesses and adopt better environmental practices.

He also highlighted challenges in securing essential raw materials, including sand, stone, gravel and clay, for legally operating industries, stressing the need to address these issues while complying with environmental laws and regulations.Mr. Handunnetti said environmental protection had become increasingly important for Sri Lanka’s export sector, particularly as international markets placed greater emphasis on environmental standards, greenhouse gas emissions and carbon footprints.He commended the individuals and institutions recognised at the awards for their contributions to environmental conservation and urged them to continue promoting sustainable practices within their industries and communities.The annual awards, organised by the Central Environmental Authority, recognise individuals and institutions for their contributions to environmental protection and sustainability.