NDB partners with Clean Ocean Force Lanka for Marine Conservation Initiatives

Above: At the partnership signing ceremony.

NDB Bank has entered into a partnership with Clean Ocean Force Lanka (COF) to launch two transformative projects aimed at combating marine pollution and fostering sustainable ecosystems. This collaboration makes NDB the first local bank to engage with COF for underwater dive clean-ups, marking a significant milestone in the bank’s commitment to environmental sustainability, the bank said in a media release.

The partnership includes two key initiatives: the Negombo Lagoon Cleanup Project and the Underwater Dive Cleanups and Reef Conservation Project. The Negombo Lagoon initiative targets the removal of plastic waste and pollutants from the lagoon and its surrounding mangroves, a critical ecosystem for biodiversity. In addition to cleanup efforts, the project aims to educate and engage the local community on the importance of protecting these fragile ecosystems, creating a long-term impact through awareness and conservation practices.

The Underwater Dive Cleanups project takes NDB’s efforts to greater depths, focusing on removing plastic and marine debris from coral reefs and ocean beds in strategic locations across Sri Lanka. By supporting COF’s underwater initiatives, NDB is actively contributing to the restoration of coral reefs, which are vital for marine biodiversity and coastal protection.

This partnership provides a platform for the bank to address marine pollution through an integrated approach that tackles the issue at multiple levels. Speaking at the signing ceremony, Lasantha Dasanayake, Head of Group HR of NDB, emphasised, “As a responsible corporate citizen, we are committed to addressing urgent environmental challenges such as marine pollution. Through this partnership with COF, we aim to create a lasting impact on Sri Lanka’s marine ecosystems and inspire others to join this cause.”

This partnership is a reflection of NDB’s vision of building a sustainable future while enhancing its role as a leader in sustainability-driven initiatives. By expanding its marine conservation efforts to encompass beach, lagoon, and underwater ecosystems, NDB sets an example for the corporate sector, showcasing how businesses can contribute meaningfully to environmental preservation. Through these initiatives, NDB continues to uphold its commitment to creating a greener, more sustainable future for all.