Author: Nathasha Silva
Sri Lanka’s First-Ever Butterfly Competition: Spotlight on Pollinators
Dilmah’s sustainability arm, Dilmah Conservation, is pleased to introduce Sri Lanka’s first-ever Butterfly Competition- an exciting initiative to foster awareness and appreciation for these delicate pollinators. Why a butterfly photography competition? Since October 2011, we have nurtured Sri Lanka’s first urban open-air butterfly garden in the heart of Moratuwa – an urban sanctuary where butterflies and several other pollinators thrive. To date, this haven has recorded 61 of the 248 butterfly species found in Sri Lanka, and serves as a model for Dilmah Conservation to conduct education and awareness programmes about butterflies. Now, with a newly revamped space set to reopen in a month, we’re celebrating the occasion with a competition that invites nature lovers to capture the beauty of Sri Lanka’s butterflies through photography. Who Can Join? Anyone can participate, whether you’re a resident or not! The only rule? Your photograph must feature a butterfly species found in Sri Lanka. This competition offers two exciting themes: 📸 Theme 01 – “Captured Worth”A photograph that not only showcases the beauty of butterflies but also highlights their ecological importance. This category aims to raise awareness of the need to protect these vital creatures and their habitats. 📸 Theme 02 – “Beyond the Image: Stories Unfolded”A thought-provoking image that goes beyond aesthetics, capturing emotions, moments, or narratives that draw the audience in making them want to know more. It’s more than just a competition, it’s a celebration of biodiversity, a tribute to the vital role butterflies play in our ecosystems, and a chance to showcase their beauty through great photography. Excited to participate? Click here for details | submit here Looking forward to visiting our butterfly garden in Moratuwa? Stay tuned for reopening dates!
A Book Reading with Kids to Celebrate World Bear Day
In celebration of World Bear Day, Dilmah Conservation hosted a special book reading of their very first children’s conservation book – Shyamala and the Sloth Bears. The book’s author, Jody Miller, took on the role of storyteller for the day. A Story that Sparks Conservation Thinking Children today are quick learners, absorbing knowledge at an incredible pace. But the key lies in guiding them toward the right kind of knowledge – one that fosters empathy and responsibility for nature. A book centered on animal conservation, particularly one as unique as the sloth bear, was the perfect way to introduce young minds to the importance of protecting wildlife. Who is the Sloth Bear? Unlike its name suggests, the sloth bear (Melursus ursinus) is not related to sloths but is a unique bear species found in South Asia. Recognisable by its shaggy black coat, long curved claws, and distinctive white chest marking, this bear is an endemic species, meaning it is native to specific regions and not found anywhere else in the wild. Unlike other bears, sloth bears have a diet rich in insects, particularly termites and ants which they suck up through their specially adapted lips. They also play a crucial role in their ecosystems by spreading seeds and even creating water holes that benefit other wildlife. A Story Comes to Life Jody Miller enhanced the experience by describing the sloth bear’s long claws, furry coat, and unique habits, making the storytelling both educational and immersive. Even the youngest attendees were captivated by the event, thanks to the stunning illustrations by Narada Ranathunga, which brought the story to life in vivid colours. Following the book reading, children engaged in a creative art session, drawing their own interpretations of the sloth bear. It was nice to see how the youngsters capture all the details of the sloth bear in the artwork. Inspiring the Next Generation of Conservationists One of the most heartwarming moments of the session came when a young participant insightfully remarked, “A sloth bear is the reason others get water in the dry season. If we conserve the sloth bear, so will the others be conserved.” This simple yet profound realisation captured the very essence of Jody’s message in her book – why protecting sloth bears means protecting an entire ecosystem. With that, Dilmah Conservation’s first-ever children’s conservation book reading became more than just an event; it was a step toward shaping young minds to care for nature. Through storytelling, illustrations, and interactive discussions, the session emphasized the vital role of sloth bears in the ecosystem, leaving children with a lasting message: Every species matters in maintaining the ecosystem’s balance, we must save them before they’re gone. If you’d like to read the story yourself or own a copy, the book is available for purchase at the Barefoot Bookshop, Colombo 4.
Nurturing Nature: Endane Field Research Centre – A Lifeline for Endangered Trees
“Nature can recover. It just needs a little help. The Endane Biodiversity Corridor can be a model, and we will see the full outcome in a few years.” – Jean-Christophe Vié, Director General of Fondation Franklinia Jean-Christophe Vié visited our Endane Biodiversity Corridor to observe the progress of our conservation initiative, supported by Fondation Franklinia, for both in-situ and ex-situ conservation of threatened, endemic rainforest tree species in Southwestern Sri Lanka. His visit provided an opportunity to assess the impact of this ongoing effort. Why conservation matters With deforestation accelerating worldwide and even within Sri Lanka, the risk to our biodiversity has never been greater. Forests – home to countless species – are shrinking, leaving many plants and animals struggling to survive. While in-situ conservation (protecting species in their natural habitats) remains the primary strategy, ex-situ conservation (protecting species outside their natural habitats) has become a vital backup plan for biodiversity at risk. It acts as a lifeline for endangered species, offering a way to nurture and restore them before it’s too late. By establishing captive breeding programs, seed banks, and plant nurseries, conservationists ensure that species on the brink of extinction have a fighting chance. Some species are so critically endangered that they no longer have viable populations in the wild. In such cases, ex-situ conservation becomes the last hope for their survival. What we do at our Field Research Centre at Endane At Dilmah Conservation’s Field Research Centre at Endane, we have been at the forefront of both in-situ and ex-situ conservation. In 2020, we established a dedicated plant nursery for threatened and endangered plant species, focusing on their protection and restoration. Our efforts so far include: – 545 tree species georeferenced for in-situ conservation – 188 threatened tree species georeferenced (allowing users to determine the location on map) in Walankanda Forest Reserve – 13,804 seedlings of rainforest species raised in nurseries, representing 173 species, 85 globally threatened tree species nurtured in our nurseries – 6,180 seedlings planted in the Endane Biodiversity Corridor for in-situ conservation – 60 globally threatened tree species planted in Endane Biodiversity Corridor & Seethawaka Botanical Garden – 1,120 plants distributed to four ex-situ forest restoration sites under our direct supervision One of our most remarkable achievements is the rediscovery of two rainforest tree species previously classified as “Extinct in the Wild” (EW): These species were found outside protected areas, georeferenced, and successfully propagated for ex-situ conservation, ensuring their survival for future generations. Joining hands with Fondation Franklinia In 2021, Fondation Franklinia, Switzerland, recognized our mission and provided funding to protect Sri Lanka’s threatened and endemic rainforest trees. Their support has allowed us to expand our conservation efforts and strengthen both in-situ and ex-situ initiatives. As a symbolic gesture of commitment to conservation, Jean-Christophe Vié, Director General of Fondation Franklinia, during his visit to the Seethawaka Botanical Garden in March 2025, planted a Doona ovalifolia -a plant that was previously classified as Extinct in the Wild and rediscovered, symbolising a shared commitment to global conservation. The Future is in Our Hands Conservation is not just about preserving the past, it’s about securing the future. By protecting our forests, nurturing endangered species, and restoring lost habitats, we ensure that future generations inherit a world rich in biodiversity. What we conserve today, we will have for the future!
From Endane to the East: Expanding Sustainable Beekeeping with ‘Bee A Keeper’
Beekeeping can be more than just honey; it’s about sustainability, livelihoods, and protecting ecosystems. Taking the First Steps Towards Sustainable Beekeeping Our Bee A Keeper project started in Endane with a simple goal – to promote sustainable beekeeping as an alternative to forest honey collection, a practice that often leads to habitat destruction. With the aim of conserving the Sri Lankan bee population, the effort includes research activities and creation of a replicable livelihood model for people. By providing training and resources, we have helped local communities shift to beekeeping boxes, reducing their dependence on cutting down trees to harvest honey. In January 2021, work on the Project Hub began at the Endane Field Station. 10 bee boxes were distributed. Three bee boxes sustained to cottage level industry. Most of the colonies are maintained by community members, who are supervised and trained by our Team at Endane. Introducing Beekeeping to the Veddah Community A few months ago, our journey expanded eastward, where we met a group from the indigenous Veddah community. For generations, they have relied on collecting wild honey from forests, a way of life now threatened by deforestation. “Deforestation is reducing honey production and threatening our livelihood”, says Velayutham, Leader of the Indigenous Community in the Eastern Province. Recognizing the challenges they face, we introduced them to the fundamentals of sustainable beekeeping, provided bee boxes and training in sustainable beekeeping. A Sustainable Alternative to Forest Honey Collection Unlike wild honey extraction, sustainable beekeeping offers a safer environment for bees while ensuring a stable source of income for the community; Bee boxes allow honey harvesting without destroying natural hives, promotes responsible harvesting as beekeepers could monitor hive health and only extract surplus honey, preventing colony collapse, and contributes to stable ecosystems for wild bee populations. Bees Thriving in Urban and Rural Spaces Beyond Endane and the East, our beekeeping boxes are installed in Moratuwa, Nawalapitiya, and almost all our centre locations. For greater efficacy, the focus areas of the ‘Bee A Keeper’ programme have been separated into research, project, educational, farming, mangrove, and communal hubs. It’s fascinating how bees can thrive even in urban settings. At Moratuwa, which serves as an educational hub for the project, we’ve introduced an Advanced Beekeeping Training Programme, providing undergraduate students and enthusiasts with in-depth knowledge of beekeeping. Meanwhile, the One Earth Climate Change Centre at our Queensberry Estate, Nawalapitiya, has been the research hub of the project since June 2020. As the earliest center involved, it has been instrumental in studying key aspects of honeybee behaviour. Through education and research, we continue to bridge the gap between traditional beekeeping and scientific advancements. With each step, Bee A Keeper continues to grow, creating a future where beekeeping sustains both nature and livelihoods.
Investing in Nature this Wildlife Day with Dilmah Conservation
An article written by intern Neluka Panabokke This year’s World Wildlife Day theme, “Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet,” resonates deeply with Dilmah’s commitment to safeguarding biodiversity through Dilmah Conservation (DC). At the heart of our philosophy lies a simple yet powerful belief – Business must be a matter of human service. That’s why 15% of Dilmah’s pre-tax profits are dedicated to environmental conservation, funding impactful initiatives that benefit both people and planet. From elephant conservation and sustainable beekeeping, to coral reef restoration and butterfly sanctuaries in urban Moratuwa, Dilmah Conservation has spearheaded a variety of projects. Efforts like the Endane Biodiversity Corridor and past contributions to amphibian conservation, including the discovery of new species, highlight our holistic approach to habitat restoration. Beyond direct action, DC actively supports research and innovation, collaborating with global partners on projects such as the South Asian Nitrogen Hub and studies assessing biodiversity in fragmented montane forests. We also provide financial support to undergraduate researchers, nurturing the next generation of conservationists. Education is another key pillar. Through workshops, seminars and immersive experiences, DC fosters awareness among diverse audiences. A recent example is the Biodiversity Youth Camp, hosted at our Climate Research Centre in Queensberry Estate. Participants from students to software engineers explored conservation hands on, from camera trapping to eDNA sampling, alongside learning about climate change, marine ecosystems, and the realities of fundraising and publishing research. As this year’s theme reminds us, financing conservation is an investment in life itself. Through sustained funding, education and collaborative action, Dilmah Conservation continues to plant the seeds of a healthier, more biodiverse future for wildlife, ecosystems and the people who depend on them.
Towards a Sustainable Future, Together
“Sustainability is our strength, resilience and competitive edge,” said Dilhan C. Fernando, Chairman of Dilmah Tea, to over 100 supply chain stakeholders at the third ‘Stronger Together’ event. The ‘Stronger Together’ event took place a few days after the announcement of the European Commission’s ‘Omnibus Simplification Package’, which proposes to ease sustainability reporting burdens for businesses by delaying certain deadlines and simplifying requirements for regulations like the CSRD and CSDDD, while still maintaining the EU’s overall sustainability goals. Launched in 2023, ‘Stronger Together’ is a commitment by Dilmah and its parent company, MJF Group, to elevate industry standards, align global sustainability benchmarks, and support all stakeholders linked to the tea industry. The programme facilitates knowledge-sharing and strategic partnerships, ensuring that suppliers, logistics providers, and allied sectors move forward together in embracing sustainability.
Conservation Conversations – A Platform for Dialogue
Session: Co-existing with Urban Snakes Conservation is not just about saving wildlife – it’s about understanding how all living things, including people, depend on each other. As urbanisation expands and ecosystems shrink, the need for meaningful conversations around conservation has never been more urgent. How do we share our spaces with nature? How can we ensure that plants and animals thrive without unnecessary human interference? These are the discussions that shape the future of our planet. Conservation Conversations is a space designed to spark discussions on urgent environmental topics, providing insights from field experts through monthly sessions. The initiative was launched with a Snakes Workshop, our first session held in February. Herpetologist and snake rescuer, Bhasuru Prabashwara, shared knowledge on coexisting with snakes. The session featured detailed presentations on snake identification and demonstrations on handling snake encounters, debunking myths, and addressing personal experiences. Nothing is clearer than showing it in action; he demonstrated step-by-step what to do when a snake is encountered, how to manage fear, ensure safety, and handle the situation correctly without harm to either the animal or the person. The engaging discussion attracted a diverse audience, including students, undergraduates, environmentalists, and retired officers. We look forward to expanding these sessions, with the One Earth Research Centre in Moratuwa serving as the primary venue for future ‘Conservation Conversations’ events. By fostering open dialogue and increasing awareness, we hope to inspire collective action toward meaningful conservation efforts.
Naturetoons: Conservation Through Cartoons
They say pictures speak louder than words, and when it comes to conservation, art has the power to illustrate what words alone cannot. In a world where environmental degradation is often met with indifference, where warnings about pollution and climate change fall on deaf ears, a single image can cut through the noise. A cartoon, drawn with insight and humour, can capture attention, evoke emotions, and inspire action. That’s exactly what our Naturetoon artist, Awantha Artigala, does best. Through our Naturetoons, found on our Dilmah Conservation social pages, we bring conservation messages to life in a way that is both engaging and thought-provoking. His illustrations make complex environmental issues accessible to all, breaking down scientific concepts such as desertification, into visually compelling narratives, where the planet would be like a fish without water. Capturing Nature’s Delicate Warning Signs; take lichens, for instance, those tiny organisms serve as nature’s early warning system, alerting us to harmful air pollutants like ammonia. Research conducted in the Rilagala forest near the Dilmah One Earth Climate Change Research Centre highlights their role as bioindicators in assessing air quality, contributing to broader climate monitoring efforts. Awantha’s art beautifully captures this significance, translating scientific insights into visual narratives that emphasise the delicate balance of our environment. Highlighting Other Critical Conservation Issues such as the rapid disappearance of wetlands around the world due to ill-planned urbanisation, rampant pollution, and human-induced climate change. These vital ecosystems, which provide habitat for countless species and regulate water cycles, are being drained for development, replaced with concrete, and subjected to harmful runoff. These toons vividly illustrate these issues, making the urgency of conservation clear. The growing number of endangered species is a clear sign of a worsening environmental crisis. The Red Data Book depicts this crisis, reminding us that protecting biodiversity isn’t just about saving species, it’s about preserving the delicate balance of life that keeps our planet thriving. By blending artistry with awareness, Naturetoons go beyond traditional conservation messaging. They invite viewers to pause, reflect, and most importantly, take action. Whether it’s understanding the balance of an ecosystem or realising the personal responsibility each of us holds, these cartoons make a lasting impression. Scroll through our feed, and you’ll know exactly what we mean.