Thema Collection sets new standard with Sri Lanka’s first carbon-neutral stall at Sancharaka Udawa

Tuesday, 27 May 2025 00:56 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Thema Collection made history this year at Sancharaka Udawa 2025, by unveiling Sri Lanka’s first-ever carbon-neutral exhibition stall—a bold step that reflects the company’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and community empowerment.

Driven by a vision to showcase not just its unique travel experiences but also its values, Thema Collection meticulously offset all carbon emissions related to the stall’s design, construction, and operation.

This ground-breaking initiative was certified by Control Union Sri Lanka, a recognised body specialising in sustainability certifications aligned with global benchmarks such as the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), Green Globe, Green Key, and Green Choice.

At the official certification ceremony, Thema Collection Director Marketing and Business Development Maxime Wickramasinghe said: “Thema Collection has always been a strong advocate for responsible tourism in Sri Lanka. This achievement is another meaningful step forward, and we are eager to collaborate with like-minded individuals and organisations to drive this movement ahead.”

General Manager – Sustainability Ashan Karunananda said: “Across our properties, we have implemented systems to quantify and verify our carbon emissions through third-party audits. This initiative at Sancharaka Udawa is an extension of that commitment, demonstrating how sustainability can be integrated into every aspect of tourism.”

The stall’s core theme centred on empowering local communities through tourism, with immersive displays highlighting sustainable grassroots initiatives supported by Thema Collection—from traditional cinnamon cultivation and artisanal pottery-making to heritage preservation. The space served not only as a promotional platform but also as a storytelling hub, emphasising how tourism can uplift communities, protect cultural traditions, and safeguard the environment.

This year’s event was particularly significant as it marked the first-ever Presidential visit to Sancharaka Udawa.

President Anura Kumara Disanayake graced the opening ceremony and visited the Thema Collection stall.

During his visit, he witnessed first-hand the innovative initiatives that exemplify tourism’s transformative power—not only as a driver of sustainable travel but also as a catalyst for reviving local industries and promoting Sri Lankan heritage on the global stage.

With this milestone achievement, Thema Collection continues to lead by example, inspiring the tourism industry and travellers alike to embrace sustainability, authenticity, and community empowerment as the foundation of responsible tourism.

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