By: Staff Writer
February 10, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka is set to implement a large-scale initiative aimed at preserving its beaches for tourism while ensuring long-term environmental sustainability. The move follows strong backing from key stakeholders, including The Hotels Association of Sri Lanka (THASL), which has pledged its full support for the ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ program.
THASL President M. Shanthikumar emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating that it introduces critical improvements across environmental, social, and governance (ESG) aspects. With hotels spread across the country, the hospitality sector is fully committed to this government-led effort.
In alignment with ‘Clean Sri Lanka,’ THASL has introduced its own set of sustainability guidelines for member hotels, focusing on three key areas: business practices, environmental responsibility, and community engagement. These guidelines will be rolled out through Regional Hotels Associations to ensure seamless implementation.
Shanthikumar highlighted that Sri Lanka’s scenic landscapes and warm hospitality have attracted millions of tourists over the years. He stressed that even small contributions toward environmental conservation can help sustain the tourism industry for future generations.
The newly established guidelines prioritize protecting the country’s natural beauty and biodiversity, recognizing that modern travelers increasingly seek destinations with strong sustainability initiatives.
He acknowledged that achieving meaningful change will take time but underscored the importance of initiating efforts now. As a major foreign exchange earner, Sri Lanka’s tourism sector stands to benefit significantly from sustainable practices. THASL is confident that its members will recognize the value of these guidelines and adopt them proactively.
Massive Beach Clean-up Effort Underway
Additional Secretary to the President for Clean Sri Lanka, Eng. S.P.C. Sugeeshwara, announced that the program will focus on cleaning and preserving a 1,740-kilometer stretch of coastline. The official launch takes place today at Crow Island, Mattakkuliya, Colombo 15, with Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya attending the event.
Sugeeshwara noted that while Sri Lanka boasts breathtaking beaches, their maintenance has often been neglected, impacting both tourism and local communities, particularly the fishing industry. The initiative will enhance beach cleanliness, conservation efforts, visitor safety, and overall tourist experience.
“For years, the importance of maintaining our beaches has been overlooked. This program aims to revitalize these coastal areas, preserving biodiversity while making them more visually appealing,” he explained.
During a media briefing at the Government Information Department, key officials outlined the program’s objectives. Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA) Director General Jagath Gunasekera emphasized that human activities, including poor waste management, lack of maintenance, and unregulated commercial practices, have negatively impacted Sri Lanka’s beaches. He warned that these issues threaten the tourism sector and require urgent intervention.
A dedicated program, titled Sundara Weralak, Aakarshaneeya Sanchaaraka Karmanthayak (Beautiful Beaches, Attractive Tourism Industry), will tackle these challenges, with initial efforts focused on the Western and Southern coastal regions.
Clean Sri Lanka Task Force Convener and Senior Additional Secretary to the President for Finance and Economic Affairs, G.N.R.D. Aponso, stressed that achieving true socio-economic development requires a fundamental shift in environmental, social, and economic attitudes. He stated that ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ is built on this broader, transformative vision, ensuring that sustainability remains at the heart of national development efforts.
