Demonstrating its commitment to sustainability leadership and climate resilience, the University of Kelaniya commemorated World Environment Day 2026 with a series of initiatives highlighting sustainable development, environmental education, and ecosystem restoration.

Organized by the Centre for Sustainability Solutions (CSS), University of Kelaniya, the two-day programme brought together academics, students, professionals, and industry representatives under the global World Environment Day theme, “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future.” The activities highlighted the importance of combining scientific knowledge, sustainable infrastructure, and nature-based solutions to address the growing challenges posed by climate change.

The programme commenced on 3^rd June 2026, with an awareness session held at the Board Room of the Faculty of Science. The event was graced by the presence of Senior Professor Nilanthi de Silva, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya, and featured presentations by renowned environmentalist Vidya Jyothi Emeritus Professor Sarath Kotagama and Engineer Upeksha Karunathilake.

Addressing participants, the speakers emphasized the urgent need for climate action and highlighted the role of green building concepts in promoting sustainable development. Discussions focused on environmentally responsible infrastructure, including energy-efficient designs, natural ventilation systems, sustainable construction materials, and nature-inspired architectural approaches that reduce environmental footprints while enhancing resilience to climate-related challenges.

Emeritus Professor Kotagama noted that with only a few years remaining until the 2030 target for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), significant gaps persist in public understanding of sustainable development and how its principles can be translated into meaningful actions. He stressed that meaningful progress requires greater awareness, behavioural change, and collective responsibility across all sectors of society. An interactive question-and-answer session provided participants with further insights into pathways for strengthening climate resilience and sustainability practices within institutions and communities.

The event was attended by Professor Jeewantha Premaratne, Dean of the Faculty of Science; Professor Chaminda Abeysinghe, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences; Professor Mangala Yatawara, Director of the CSS; Professor U. P. K. Epa, Founder Director of the CSS; members of the CSS; academics; administrative and non-academic staff; and students.

As part of the World Environment Day celebrations, a field visit was organized on 5^th June 2026 to the  Lanka Mangrove Museum in Pambala, one of the country's most important centres for mangrove conservation and education. The delegation included university staff and students.

A key highlight of the visit was the planting of 100 mangrove saplings in the lagoon ecosystem adjoining the museum. The initiative aims not only to enhance ecosystem restoration efforts but also to facilitate long-term monitoring of sapling growth and survival, contributing to ongoing conservation activities in the region.

Participants also received first-hand exposure to the ecological importance of mangrove ecosystems and the challenges they face under changing climatic conditions. Discussions focused on the role of mangroves in carbon sequestration, coastal protection, biodiversity conservation, and water quality maintenance.

Widely recognized as one of nature’s most effective climate solutions, mangrove forests absorb and store substantial amounts of atmospheric carbon while protecting coastal communities from erosion, storm surges, and extreme weather events. They also provide critical habitats for a diverse range of aquatic and avian species, supporting both ecological health and local livelihoods.

Through these awareness-building and conservation-focused initiatives, the University of Kelaniya endorsed its commitment to advancing sustainability through education, research, community engagement, and practical environmental action. The World Environment Day programme reflects the University's broader vision of fostering environmentally responsible leadership and contributing meaningfully to national and global sustainability goals.