Munchee Mihisethmaga, the environmental protection initiative of the flagship brand of Ceylon Biscuits Limited (CBL), Munchee came forward to protect the environment with various activities during the recently concluded Kataragama Season.
Festivities and celebratory events inevitably lead to pollution of the environment due to lack of proper garbage disposal methods coupled with general disregard of the public. This has impacted the surrounding environment, the community and animals.
In efforts to minimize the levels of pollution, Munchee provided recyclable bags to pilgrims while educating them on environmental protection. A propaganda truck was utilized to broadcast announcements on the importance of keeping the city clean, with the noble intention of reducing or possibly preventing the usage of polythene bags.
In keeping with their continuous efforts in protecting the environment, the Munchee team also organized a program the day after the Final Perahara to clean up the Kataragama Sacred City and the surrounding area.
Members from the Special Task Force, the Kataragama Esala Parisara Mituroa, an active NGO in the area, the Kataragama Pradesheeya Sabha and the Environmental Authority Office in the UVA Provincial Council extended their fullest support.
Several volunteers also participated in this important environment-friendly exercise. As a result it was possible to clean the Sacred City and ensure the accumulated garbage was dispatched to recycling centres for proper disposal.
Encouraged by the feedback of the general public, Munchee hopes to expand this project with additional features to protect the environment in the future.
The careless disposal of plastic bags and other waste material have proved to be extremely detrimental to nature especially for elephants, leading to many issues. Wild elephants are lured in by the garbage, resulting in attacks on the local community and subsequent untimely death of human and animal life. Therefore all measures were taken to protect the environment ensuring a positive impact on nature and to maintain the balance of ecology.
During this season, Munchee distributed delicious biscuits at a dansal held for devotees and visitors. A Pin Potha printed courtesy of Munchee was donated to all devotees who arrived at the sacred Kiri Vehera area, assisting them in observing meaningful sil.
Over the years, Munchee has continued to be in the forefront of assisting a large number of people during various religious festivities through many CSR initiatives. Munchee, showcasing its environmental drive have been providing eco-friendly bags to devotees visiting many religious places including Mihintale and Siri Pada.