Revitalization of the Reed Industry

Abstract

A case study of revitalization of the reed industry was conducted in Kalapugama Village in the Kalutara District. (Data were gathered on four aspects namely as resource utilization, environmental friendliness, economic and social aspects). Objectives of the study were to identify the present status, problems associated with input supply, processing, weaving, marketing and potential of expanding the industry in Kalapugama village. The sample was selected randomly based on the information collected from the mat weaving training center at Kalapugama in Kalutara district. Sample size was 30 families. Data were collected using primary and secondary sources. Reed species, on four aspects namely resource utilization, environmental friendliness, economic and social aspects found in the area, were Galhe (Cyperus corymbosus), Pothukola (Cyperus platyphyllus) and Thunhiriya (Schoenoplectus gross us). Among them, only Galhe is cultivated because, other two species could be obtained from fallow paddy fields. Following the collection of raw materials, reed is subjected for drying, boiling, dying, pressing and weaving. Unlike Pothukola and Thunhiriya, Galhe can be used to produce a range of products like beach mats, pillow mats, handbags, lockets, shoes, carpets and bags to do marketing. Reed industry is mainly headed by the women (96%) and who are engaged as a part time occupation. Reed industry provides environmental benefits like reducing environmental pollution due to biodegradability, while being a good substitute for polythene. It enhances biodiversity by increasing the population of living organisms, such as mammals, reptiles, trees, shrubs and insects. When considering economic benefits, annual income could be increased considerably. Improvements of tools and machines can maximize the resource utilization. At the same time, integration of reed cultivation with Nymphia spp, establishing systematic marketing strategy, production of utility products, improving quality of the products can boost the gross returns. Diversification of labour can encourage younger generation to be involved in the reed industry