Takes steps towards Wetland Conservation & Biodiversity Enrichment
28th January 2025, Colombo, Sri Lanka – Hirdaramani Apparel recently unveiled ‘Diya Arana’, a proposed wetland located at the Hirdaramani Ja-Ela (Washing) facility’s premises. A key initiative supporting Hirdaramani’s journey towards wetland conservation and biodiversity enrichment, ‘Diya Arana’ is planned for completion in February 2026, coinciding with World Wetlands Day.
The proceedings to unveil the Hirdaramani ‘Diya Arana’ Wetland took place in the esteemed presence of Prof. Hemanthi Ranasinghe – Senior Professor, Dept. of Forestry & Environmental Science of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Dr. Jagath Gunawardana – Environmentalist & Environmental Lawyer, and officials of the Biodiversity Secretariat of the Ministry of Environment, Central Environment Authority and Forestry Department (Gampaha District). Madhawa Atapattu – Joint Managing Director, Manindri Bandaranayake – Chief Brand & Sustainability Officer, Rohan Perera – Chief Operating Officer – Hirdaramani Ja-Ela (Washing), and Leonie Vaas – General Manager – Sustainability of Hirdaramani Apparel were also in attendance.
The Hirdaramani ‘Diya Arana’ Wetland aims to restore and protect the wetland ecosystem in line with Hirdaramani’s Future First Sustainability Roadmap’s goals for Reforestation and Biodiversity. The area will cover efforts to enhance the wetland’s quality by eliminating barriers to the natural waterflow, creating refugia for a diverse range of native and endemic faunal and floral species. These efforts will further enrich the wetland’s biodiversity, supporting life forms such as butterflies, dragonflies, land snails, fish, mammals, reptiles, and birds. Together with the adjacent forest patch in the premises, ‘Diya Arana’ will serve as a vital safeguard in sustaining regional biodiversity.
Madhawa Atapattu, Joint Managing Director of Hirdaramani Apparel commented, “Wetland conservation is essential for maintaining ecological balance, supporting biodiversity and sustaining the wellbeing of local communities. Given the increasing threats to wetlands from human activities and climate change, there is an urgent need to adopt a comprehensive approach to its conservation. As an organisation that always strives to do the right thing, it was imperative that we step forward to set up a wetland in one of our own premises, along with a commitment to drive public awareness on the issue.” He added, “We hope that the Hirdaramani ‘Diya Arana’ Wetland project will inspire and educate future generations, fostering a deeper appreciation for the valuable role of these critical ecosystems.”
Future First, Hirdaramani’s 2025 Sustainability Roadmap is founded on four pillars – Conserve the Environment, Empower our Associates, Support our Communities, and Trust in Good Choices. It outlines a list of environmental, social and governance targets that propel the company’s ambition to be a global benchmark in sustainability. By understanding the values of its customers, associates, and community, Hirdaramani is working towards strengthening its business in a sustainable and responsible manner. The company is committed to making responsible choices today that will shape a better future for everyone in the long-term.
