Business

Harnessing nature’s wisdom: Experts highlight “Resist–Align” path to resilience

Published

3 weeks ago

2026/04/18

As Sri Lanka confronts mounting environmental and economic pressures, a timely national conversation on resilience has underscored the urgent need to rethink how societies respond to change—by balancing resistance with alignment to nature.

The inaugural Nature Talks Webinar Series, titled “Nature’s Secrets for Building Resilience in a Changing World,” took place on Wednesday night, bringing together leading environmental thinkers who argued that resilience is no longer optional, but essential in navigating climate and ecological uncertainty.

Organised collaboratively by the International Centre for Biological Studies (ICBS), GAP HQ, and the Biomimicry Research Centre, the session aimed to bridge science, policy, and innovation, while drawing practical lessons from nature.

Leading the discussion, Professor Sarath Kotagama of the University of Colombo emphasised that resilience must be understood as a combination of resistance and alignment.

“Resilience is about resisting where necessary, but also forming alliances with change,” he said. “We are not saying we can stop everything. The real question is—can we adjust to live with it?”

He urged societies to reflect on their ability not only to prevent or resist environmental change, but also to adapt intelligently to it. Referring to global developments such as Artemis II, Kotagama noted that humanity is increasingly being reminded of how rapidly conditions are shifting on Earth.

Drawing lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, Professor Kotagama outlined several insights that have reshaped thinking on resilience.

“One of the most important lessons was the role of microbes,” he said. “We always focused on large animals in biodiversity, but COVID showed us that invisible organisms can have a massive impact on the planet.”

He explained that while conservation has traditionally prioritised charismatic species such as elephants and birds, microorganisms—often overlooked—are equally critical to ecological balance.

Professor Kotagama also challenged assumptions about nature. “Nature is not always kind or caring. Under certain conditions, it can be harsh, and humans don’t necessarily feel affection for all forms of life—especially microbes,” he said.

At the same time, he stressed the decisive role of science. “If not for science, we would not have survived as we did,” he noted, pointing to the rapid development of vaccines despite global norms that typically require years of testing.

He further highlighted the importance of governance. “We may not always like governments, but during COVID, governments mattered. Without coordinated action, the outcome would have been far worse,” he said.

Professor Kotagama added that the pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in the global economic system, with industries such as tourism collapsing almost overnight due to what he described as “an invisible microbe.”

“It showed clearly that systems we thought were stable can be disrupted instantly,” he said, warning that unsustainable development models—particularly in tourism—must be reconsidered.

Meanwhile, Professor Sevandi Jayakody of Wayamba University of Sri Lanka highlighted biomimicry as a key pathway to resilience.

“The biggest answer to resilience is biomimicry,” Professor Jayakody said. “Nature already holds solutions—we just need to understand and apply them.”

She explained that biomimicry can operate at the level of form, process, or systems, and cited mangrove restoration as a practical example. Attempts to artificially recreate ecosystems often fall short unless they follow natural patterns such as tidal flows and species interactions.

“In restoring degraded mangroves, we learned that forcing systems does not work. When we followed natural contours and introduced resilient ‘nurse’ species, the ecosystem began to recover on its own,” she said.

Professor Jayakody emphasised that resilience must be embedded within environmental systems rather than imposed externally. “Resilience is a function of the environment we live in. If we ignore that, our interventions will fail,” she said.

She also cautioned against expecting rapid results. “Nature is slow. Humans are in a hurry,” Professor Jayakody noted, pointing to long-term data showing that even measurable ecological changes—such as seasonal shifts—can occur gradually over decades.

“Change is inevitable, but it is not always sudden. We need long-term data, patience, and the wisdom to interpret it correctly,” she added.

Moderating the session, Imaduwa Priyadarshana brought a practical perspective on sustainable design and adaptation, highlighting how nature-based thinking can inform urban planning and infrastructure.

With Sri Lanka grappling with climate variability, coastal degradation, and energy challenges, the experts stressed that such knowledge-sharing platforms are increasingly vital. The discussion aligned with a growing global shift towards nature-based solutions—learning from ecosystems that have evolved resilience over millennia.

By Ifham Nizam

All News Advertisement

Business

Trade, Investment and Tourism Cooperation Forum strengthens economic ties between Sri Lanka and Vietnam

Published

11 hours ago

2026/05/9

Priyan

Marking a significant milestone in strengthening bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and Vietnam, the Sri Lanka– Vietnam Trade, Investment and Tourism Cooperation Forum was successfully held on Friday (08) at the Hilton Colombo.

The Forum, jointly organised by the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Sri Lanka Export Development Board, was held in parallel with the State Visit of President Tô Lâm of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam and General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam. The event was attended by President Tô Lâm and Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya.

The Forum underscored the importance of the longstanding bilateral relationship between the two countries and reflected the shared commitment to expanding economic cooperation.

The primary objective of the Forum was to further strengthen bilateral economic ties by focusing on key priorities including the expansion of trade, promotion of investment and enhancement of tourism cooperation. The event also provided an opportunity to explore new avenues of collaboration, strengthen business-to-business engagement and facilitate greater market access by bringing together senior government officials, entrepreneurs and industry leaders from both countries on a common platform.

During the Forum, direct air connectivity between Colombo and Ho Chi Minh City was officially launched. The new services, operated by Vietnam Airlines and VietJet Air, are expected to further strengthen relations between the two nations and their people.

Six Memoranda of Understanding covering key areas of cooperation were also signed during the Forum. In addition, a notable development was the establishment of the Sri Lanka–Vietnam Business Council under the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce.

Alongside the Forum, the Sri Lanka Export Development Board organised a business networking session, providing Sri Lankan and Vietnamese entrepreneurs with the opportunity to engage directly with one another. The event received strong participation from the private sectors of both countries, with businesses expressing keen interest in expanding trade and establishing resilient supply chains.

Representing Sri Lanka at the event were Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, Sunil Handunnetti, Minister of Environment , Dr. Dhammika Patabendi, Deputy Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development ,Chathuranga Abeysinghe, Deputy Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation, Janitha Ruwan Kodithuwakku, Deputy Minister of Tourism Ruwan Ranasinghe, Secretary to the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, Thilaka Jayasundara, Secretary to the Ministry of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development, K.A.Vimalenthirarajah, Chairman of the Export Development Board Mangala Wijesinghe along with several other dignitaries and officials.

Representing Vietnam were Politburo Member, Secretary of the Party Central Committee and Chairman of the Central Organisation Commission , Nguyen Duy Ngoc, Politburo Member, Secretary of the Party Central Committee and Chairman of the Central Commission for Policies and Strategies , Nguyen Thanh Nghi, Politburo Member, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence, Phan Van Giang, Politburo Member and Minister of Public Security, Luong Tam Quang and Politburo Member and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Le Hoai Trung, among others.

(PMD)

Business

SL to launch first Dedicated Sustainable Tourism Association in South Asia

Published

14 hours ago

2026/05/9

Thilina Walpola

Tourism personnel at the press briefing

‘Sri Lanka embarks on a journey towards a more sustainable and prosperous tourism industry.’

The Executive Committee of the Sustainable Tourism Association of Sri Lanka (SusTour) announced the above at its final meeting held on May 6, at Connaisance head office, Colombo. The committee finalised all preparations for the official launch in August of the first private sector led, non-governmental Sustainable Tourism Association in South Asia, as most tourism associations in Asia operate as dedicated Eco Tourism entities while this is probably the first in Asia.

This momentous event will be officiated by Prof. Ruwan Ranasinghe, the Deputy Minister of Tourism, who has agreed to inaugurate the Association in conjunction with a media launch.

Prof. Ranasinghe is not only a qualified academic specializing in sustainable tourism but also a passionate advocate for the development of sustainable tourism practices in Sri Lanka. His involvement is pivotal, as he has expressed his commitment to provide unwavering support to the Sustainable Tourism Association of Sri Lanka.

In addition to Prof. Ranasinghe’s support, Buddhika Hewawasam, chairman, SLTDA and Dheera Hettiarchchi, chairman, Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism and Hospitality Management, have also pledged their cooperation in the implementation of sustainable tourism initiatives through their respective state organisations. Their combined expertise and resources are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the future of tourism in Sri Lanka, ensuring that it aligns with sustainable development goals.

This inauguration marks a significant step towards fostering a sustainable tourism framework in Sri Lanka, one that prioritizes environmental preservation, cultural heritage and economic viability. The Sustainable Tourism Association of Sri Lanka is poised to lead the charge in promoting responsible tourism practices, ensuring that the industry flourishes while respecting the rich natural and cultural resources of the island.

Speaking at an exclusive press interview the Tourism Deputy Minister noted; “I am thrilled to see the private sector actively participating in the promotion of sustainable development, particularly within the tourism industry. This partnership is not just beneficial but essential, as it represents a viable mission that requires the joint engagement of both government and private entities. By working together, we can ensure that our tourism practices not only enhance economic growth but also preserve our natural resources and cultural heritage for future generations. It is through this collaborative approach that we can create lasting change and fulfill our commitment to sustainability.”

Adding to this collaborative effort, Australian High Commissioner Matthew Duckworth said Australia would continue its long-term support for sustainable tourism development in Sri Lanka. Australia has contributed more than 50 million Australian dollars over the past decade to sustainable tourism initiatives in Sri Lanka, including to support more sustainable planning, accreditation and skills development for this crucial sector. The High Commissioner confirmed that this support would continue into the future and highlighted Australia’s partnership with the Market Development Facility (MDF), which had recently launched a new initiative using data analytics to help Sri Lankan policy makers better understand how travelers discover and engage with destinations.

“Our vision is to create a platform where all stakeholders including product manufacturers can collaborate and share best practices in sustainable tourism, said Chandra Wickramasinghe, elected founder president of the Association. “We aim to ensure that tourism in Sri Lanka not only provides economic benefits but also contributes positively to the environment and local communities, he added.

The founders of STASL-SusTour believe that sustainable tourism is the ‘Future of World Tourism’ and is crucial for the long-term viability of Sri Lanka’s tourism sector, which is a significant contributor to the nation’s economy. By fostering responsible travel practices, the association seeks to educate stakeholders, including tourists and businesses along with manufacturers about the importance of sustainability.

‘ The association plans to launch various initiatives, including workshops, awareness campaigns and partnerships with local and international organizations focused on sustainable tourism, said Nalin Malwenna, newly elected secretary. Through these efforts, SusTour hopes to position Sri Lanka as a leading destination for eco-conscious travelers looking for authentic and responsible travel experiences.

“The establishment of the Sustainable Tourism Association of Sri Lanka arrives at a pivotal moment, signaling a commitment to a more sustainable future in the nation’s tourism landscape, said elected treasurer Dr. Samantha Pathirathne.

By Claude Gunasekera

Business

Siyapatha Finance unveils 62nd branch in dynamic Horana City

Published

14 hours ago

2026/05/9

Thilina Walpola

Premier finance company Siyapatha Finance PLC recently unveiled its newest branch in Horana, successfully expanding its islandwide branch network to 62 branches. Located in one of the fastest-emerging economic hotspots in the Kalutara District, the Horana branch offers Siyapatha Finance’s wide range of holistic financial services including leasing, fixed deposits, gold financing, business loans,fast draft, factoring, and Smart Pay – the Company’s bill payment facility.

The branch was declared open by Siyapatha Finance PLC Directors- Jayanath Gunawardena and Ms. Sriyani Ranathunga , Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mathisha Hewavitharana in the presence of Chief Operating Officer (COO) Rajeev De Silva, Ms. Dinuli Gihansi Perera -student of Govinna Maha Vidyalaya , Horana who has been selected to represent Sri Lanka for Asian Boxing Championship 2026 , Senior Management, staff members as well as Police HQI Ranga Perera , Grama Niladhari Mr. Chaminda Kumara, representatives of the government and private banks and insurance companies and well-wishers.

Speaking at the ceremony, Siyapatha Finance PLC CEO Mathisha Hewavitharana remarked: “Horana is a region that has captured massive interest nationally in terms of commercial and social development in recent years. Expanding our branch network to this area gives us a significant opportunity to broaden our reach and serve a larger, diverse ;;customer base’’.