Sri Lanka's Control of Pesticides Act No. 33 of 1980 and the National Policy and Action Plan on Prevention of Suicide of 1997 are among the five inspiring and impactful laws and policies that take home the Future Policy Award 2021. The Award, often referred to as the Oscar on Best Polices, is celebrating the most effective policy solutions that minimise the adverse effects of exposure to chemicals on human health and the environment.

Sri Lanka had one of the world's highest suicide rates, and pesticide poisoning accounted for more than two-thirds of all cases. Sri Lanka’s Control of Pesticides Act No. 33  of 1980 and amendments of 1994, 2011 and 2020 ensures that only less hazardous pesticides are available. It has been used to ban a total of 36 HHPs. Sri Lanka's pesticide regulations and its National Policy and Action Plan on Prevention of Suicide of 1997 have contributed to one of the greatest decreases in suicide rates ever achieved globally. The country's suicide rate has been reduced by 70 percent, particularly in rural villages and among children and youth. The bans saved about 93,000 lives over 20 years at a direct government cost of less than USD 50 per life. While at the same time, Sri Lanka has maintained its agricultural productivity. Internationally, the Sri Lankan experience recommends banning HHPs as one of the most cost-effective approaches for suicide prevention.

"Every day, our rights are violated by the exposure to toxic chemicals and pollution. Especially children are disproportionally affected", remarks Alexandra Wandel, Executive Director of the World Future Council. "For the sake of current and future generations, it is absolutely critical that stakeholders make the protection from hazardous chemicals a priority. Sri Lanka and the other winning policies show the way forward and are an inspiration for policymakers worldwide," says Alexandra Wandel, Director of the World Future Council (WFC).

To learn more about the winning policies for the Future Policy Award 2021 visit: www.worldfuturecouncil.org/chemicals