Unilever Sri Lanka has unveiled a state-of-the-art rooftop solar power system at its food factory and Distribution Center in Sapugaskanda. This project represents another step towards Unilever’s aim to convert to 100% renewable energy sources across its sites globally.

The project combines 1,672 solar panels from the two facilities to produce a total of 970kW, with an 810Kva inverter to support it. This system is anticipated to generate an outstanding 1.25 million kWh of electricity annually, fulfilling 33% of the facilities’ energy needs. With this most recent installation, Unilever Sri Lanka’s overall solar capacity including that of the Horana factory has increased to 4MW, further supporting the country’s goal of generating 75% of the energy requirement from renewables by 2050.

Speaking on the occasion, Damith Abeyratne, Supply Chain Director, Unilever Sri Lanka said: “At Unilever Sri Lanka, sustainability is a priority. Our recent solar installations in Sapugaskanda are an important step in our efforts to lessen our impact on the environment and support the country’s renewable energy targets. This project serves as a reminder of the private sector’s vital role in contributing to form Sri Lanka’s sustainable future.”

Unilever has an approved science-based target to achieve a 100% reduction in absolute Scope 1 & 2 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2030, against a 2015 baseline. Achieving net zero emissions throughout its value chain by 2039 is one of Unilever’s long-term ambitions. Focusing on pragmatic steps, sooner rather than later, the company has created a comprehensive Climate Transition Action Plan (CTAP) that applies globally, guiding its actions to reduce GHG emissions over the next few years.

People’s Leasing & Finance PLC, a leader in non-banking financial services, has announced the appointment of Prof. Ajantha Samarakoon as its new Chairman of the Board, with effect from 31st December 2024, subsequent to receiving approval from the Central Bank of Sri Lanka.

A distinguished academic and professional, Prof. Samarakoon brings a wealth of expertise and leadership to his new role, underpinned by an accomplished career spanning academia, industry, and public service. His appointment signals a fresh chapter for People’s Leasing & Finance, as the company continues to build on its reputation for innovation and excellence in the financial services sector.

Prof. Samarakoon also presently serves as a professor at the Department of Commerce and Financial Management of the Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies at the University of Kelaniya. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Special) Degree and a Master’s Degree from the same institution. He has also earned a PhD from the Faculty of Management and Economics at Tomas Bata University in the Czech Republic, supported by the prestigious Internationalisation Development Scholarship awarded by the Czech Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sports.

A progressive initiative aimed at fostering inclusivity in Sri Lanka’s apparel industry was officially launched, marking a pivotal step toward integrating persons with disabilities into the workforce. Dubbed Inclusive Threads, the program highlights the collective power of public-private collaboration to create meaningful opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

Led by Better Work Sri Lanka, the initiative is a partnership between the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the International Finance Corporation (IFC), supported by Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). The program seeks to enhance vocational training centers, equip employers and workers with practical tools, and promote accessibility and inclusivity throughout the industry.

Yohan Lawrence, Secretary-General of the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF), expressed the apparel sector’s strong commitment to the initiative: “Diversity and inclusion are essential pillars of a sustainable and progressive apparel industry. With Inclusive Threads, we have a chance to break down barriers and unlock the potential of persons with disabilities, ensuring their meaningful participation in the workforce. Together, we can lead by example and create a truly inclusive workplace that reflects the best of Sri Lanka’s values and ingenuity.”

The program also garnered strong support from Darshani Karunarathne, Director of the Department of Social Services, who underscored the critical role of public-private partnerships: