The Species Conservation Centre of Sri Lanka conducted the first phase of the project from August to December 2015. They visited 8 districts within 5 provinces, and found 12 large scale and 20 small scale waste dumping sites frequented by elephants. Whilst more research must be conducted to understand the effects on elephants in areas not visited, the Foundation embarked on identifying Digampathaha (Matale District) as the location with immediate need. With 22 35 elephants visiting this site at different times of the day, the foundation initiated discussions with corporate entities to support the relevant local authorities with a sustainable waste management plan that will not only benefit the wild elephants but the surrounding communities as well.