Welcome to a journey through success stories of sustainability from Sri Lanka, where ecology and innovation meet to offer a greener future. Discover how local businesses like Jetwing Hotels and Earthbound Creations are revolutionizing the travel experience, combining comfort, environmental respect, and social commitment. From energy self-sufficiency, waste reduction, and women’s empowerment, the country perfectly illustrates the transition from words to action, proving that eco-responsible tourism is not just a wish, but a reality already well-established!
Jetwing Hotels: Responsible luxury in harmony with nature
When it comes to sustainability in Sri Lanka, Jetwing Hotels is one of the leading figures. This iconic hotel chain not only offers rooms with a view but also impressive environmental commitments. A legacy of Herbert Cooray, the brand focuses on the balance between business, local well-being, and deep respect for the environment. Its 31 establishments, each with their unique charm, implement concrete actions to safeguard natural resources while ensuring high-end comfort for their visitors.
Take the brilliant example of the Jetwing Lake Hotel. It meets nearly 79% of its energy and water needs through self-sufficient and ecological methods. During the day, its solar panels largely cover its needs, while at night, the hotel only partially relies on the national grid. For daily water usage, a treatment plant redirects and filters wastewater, transforming it for two purposes: greywater serves for showers, toilets, and laundry, while blackwater irrigates the vegetable garden and gardens.
Innovation doesn’t stop there! Instead of conventional diesel boilers, a biomass boiler powered by cinnamon wood (a local by-product with multiple virtues) heats buildings, kitchens, and laundries, while generating additional income for local producers. Other hotels in the group, such as Jetwing Blue or Jetwing Kaduruketha, also adopt similar systems. If the topic intrigues you, learn more about eco-certified hotels and their numerous benefits.
Proud of its fifty years of ecological activism, the Jetwing family is now pushing innovation a step further, aiming for total carbon neutrality for its Jetwing Jungle Lodge, thanks to a complete photovoltaic installation. For the environmentally conscious traveler, it’s the dream destination to combine relaxation and ethical commitment!
Earthbound Creations: From print to eco decor
Another inspiring example: Earthbound Creations, founded by Sagara Ranga Liyanage, demonstrates that circular economy and creativity go hand in hand in Sri Lanka. The company transforms the concept of recycling into a true way of life. It all starts in their workshop in Udaperadeniya, just steps from Kandy, where newspapers and locally collected solid waste find a second life: table mats, baskets, notebooks, bags, and other colorful goodies, all are produced by hand or using machines designed on site.
The secret to their success? Focusing on the diversity of items, mass production (more than 90 different references!), and accessibility while respecting the planet. While some manufacturing steps take place in the workshop, part of the products is entrusted to home workers, mostly women from the neighborhood, promoting their empowerment after difficult challenges like the tsunami or the pandemic.
Thus, in a creative and supportive atmosphere, Earthbound Creations exports its ideas and products, appealing to Australia, Germany, the Netherlands, and many other countries. An intelligent and elegant way to travel responsibly while bringing back a truly unique souvenir!
Want to learn more about how other companies around the world are committed to the planet? Discover the Maslina Resort, a haven of sustainability in Croatia, or embark on an adventure by traveling around the world by car, while staying aware of the risks associated with travel and insurance.
Responsible travel: a winning bet in Sri Lanka
These Sri Lankan initiatives amaze and inspire. By staying in committed hotels like Jetwing or choosing artisanal souvenirs from Earthbound Creations, every traveler can become an actor of sustainable and supportive tourism. The success of these stories proves that it is possible to combine escape, pleasure, and responsibility without compromise.
To expand your list of sustainable destinations, let yourself be tempted by the experiences of responsible tourism in Sarthe, or deepen your reflection on the impact of your accommodation choices with our detailed guide. In Sri Lanka, sustainability is no longer a distant concept: it is embodied daily and gives new meaning to travel.
