Take action – Don’t look away if you see people polluting the environment. Ignoring an act of pollution is as bad as being part of it. As a law abiding citizen of this country, we are all compelled by the constitution to act with conscience when you see an illegal act being committed that is both harmful to the environment and to the lives of humans.

How to complain – Easy steps on how to make a complaint

Writing the evidence down

1. Note down date and time when illegal act was committed. Note down duration if it is a continuous act.
2. Take photographic evidence – either by camera or by phone
3. Write clear and concise report on what you witnessed – attached phototropic evidence when ever possible
4. If this action affects more than one person, have as many persons sign the complaint.
5. Always have another person witnessing what takes place

Where to make your complaint

1. Make entry in the relevant Police Station – get copy of complaint made
2. Complain to the Urban Council/ Municipal Council
3. Write to the Central Environmental Authority – Chairman/ Director General
4. Write to the Minister of Environment and Natural Resources with copies to the Chairman/ Director General – CEA
5. Write to EFL – Use template below and write to:  

Environmental Foundation Ltd.
No. 146/ 34, Havelock Road
Colombo 5, Sri Lanka
Tel: (94 11) 250 2609 Fax: (94 11) 452 8483
Email: efl@sltnet.lk Website: www.efl.lk

Use template below to structure your complaint

• Name:
• Address:
• Contact number:
• Email address (optional):
• Nature of Complaint. The act affects:
  • water/ soil/ air
  • creates noise or vibrations
  • causes visual pollution
  • Deforestation
  • Destruction of Protected Areas
  • Marine pollution
  • Other: ____________(Elaborate)
• Place: (Name of Village/town/ city)
• District:
• Divisional Secretariat Division (if possible): 
• Write your concerns (no more than 300 words. Bullet form appreciated): 

Important address and contact numbers