Bogawantalawa Tea sets global benchmarks in sustainable plantations
Amid the rolling green hills of Sri Lanka’s “Golden Valley of Tea” in the island’s central highlands, a revolution in sustainability is brewing at the heart of Bogawantalawa Tea Estates PLC (BTE).
As the world marked Environment Day 2024, BTE stands at the forefront of a global mission to drive meaningful action on environmental sustainability, embracing the theme ‘Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought Resilience’ not just in words but through vigorous action, the company said in a media release.
Delivering a special message on World Environment Day, BTE Executive Director, Lalith Munasinghe emphasised the urgency of ensuring that economic development in the present case does not come at the expense of current and future generations
Tea fields
“Our actions today shape the landscape of tomorrow. The past 12 months have been the hottest in recorded history, and it is clear that human activity since the industrial age has been the primary driver of these changes. While our nation is blessed with an incredibly rich natural heritage, we are also all part of a single interconnected global environment, and emissions in industrial centres around the world dictate how all nations will be impacted by climate change.
“While this is certainly a daunting challenge, we believe that Sri Lankan enterprises like Bogawantalawa Tea have the potential to lead the world on climate action. Together with many other Regional Plantation Companies, we have been pioneers in the development of a new generation of sustainable plantation industries that can potentially serve as an example worthy of global emulation. This World Environment Day, we call on all Sri Lankans to take this message and mission to heart, and rally together to discover sustainable solutions to the defining challenges of our time,” he said.
As the world’s first climate-positive Tea Growing, Manufacturing and Marketing Company offering Uncompensated Climate Positive Teas certified for product and facility, BTE has been continuously cultivating a deep-rooted commitment to environmental stewardship.
“Our actions today shape the landscape of tomorrow,” he stated. As the tea industry faces numerous challenges, Mr. Munasinghe stressed the necessity of sustainability in environmental, social, and financial aspects—referred to as the three pillars of sustainability. He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to sustainable practices that protect the planet’s resources for future generations.
Embracing World Environment Day and its 2024 theme of ‘Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought Resilience,’ BTE embarked on a week-long series of programmes aimed at amplifying eco-friendly initiatives and activities with the support of grassroots communities that the company is engaged with.
Land restoration involves the process of rejuvenating degraded land, making it fertile and productive again. For tea plantations, this means implementing sustainable agricultural practices that enhance soil health, improve water retention, and boost biodiversity. Techniques such as regenerative agricultural practices, organic and hybrid organic agriculture, agroforestry, and sustainable soil practices and reforestation are essential. These practices not only restore the land but also enhance the quality and yield of tea crops.
In celebration of World Environment Day 2024, BTE organised a series of eco-friendly initiatives, channelling the collective efforts of all stakeholders towards the noble endeavour of environmental restoration. Anchored by the inspiring slogan, “Our earth is our future, we are the restoration of our generation,” BTE united in purpose, striving to weave a lasting legacy of environmental stewardship for future generations.
“In every cup of tea produced at Bogawantalawa Tea Estates, there’s a story of sustainability and environmental stewardship,” said BTE CEO, Feroze Majeed. “As we embrace the theme of ‘Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought Resilience,’ let us forge ahead with purpose, ensuring that Bogawantalawa remains a beacon of environmental responsibility.” He further stated that they embraced World Environment Day 2024 with a deep-seated commitment to sustainability and innovation. “Through our relentless pursuit of eco-friendly practices and research-driven initiatives, we aim to pave the way for a greener, more resilient tomorrow.”
The week-long celebration began with an Eco-Friendly Farming Workshop on June 3rd. This interactive session was tailored for tea estate workers, delving into innovative techniques such as organic cultivation methods, integrated pest management (IPM), and sustainable tea production. By equipping workers with the knowledge and skills needed to adopt sustainable farming practices, BTE ensured long-term environmental and economic benefits, fostering a more sustainable future for the entire community.
Following the workshop, the Eco-Friendly Tea Estate Clean-Up on June 4th saw employees joining hands in a robust clean-up drive. Engaging in responsible waste management and recycling initiatives, this activity instilled a deep sense of pride and responsibility towards maintaining a clean and eco-friendly working environment.
The week concluded on June 7th with a Stakeholder Consultation Programme focused on climate-smart practices, sustainability goals, and collaborative efforts. Government officials, industry partners, and community leaders gathered to build a collaborative approach to sustainability and resilience, underscoring BTE’s role as a leader in driving positive change.
Throughout the celebration, BTE reinforced its commitment to the environment, pledging to tread lightly upon its delicate surface and ensure a brighter tomorrow for generations to come. With each tree planted and every stream cleaned, the company honoured its sacred bond with the earth, showcasing its dedication to the preservation and protection of the environment for future generations.
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