In a groundbreaking effort to promote environmental responsibility, Sunlight – Sri Lanka’s most trusted laundry detergent brand with a heritage spanning over 135 years, spearheaded the ‘Manudamin Wadiyamak’ initiative during the Randoli Perahera, part of the revered Kandy Esala Perahera, held from 13th to 19th August. The initiative marks 15 years of partnership with Dalada Maligawa, reinforcing the brand’s enduring commitment to national heritage and environmental protection. Raising awareness about the harmful effects of irresponsible disposal of polyethylene and plastic, Sunlight urges participants to adopt eco-friendly practices that will protect the environment for generations to come.

Studies have shown that only 37% of the Kandy Esala Perahera participants recover the polythene and plastic they bring, leaving 63% of it behind, which worsens the environmental problems and poses a major challenge to the municipality and Dalada Maligawa, as the clean-up operation is both difficult and expensive. In response, the Sunlight initiative “Manudamin Wadiyamak” has taken decisive action to mitigate this impact by reducing the use of plastic through the distribution of fresh cloth to devotees and offering an eco-friendly alternative for seating in exchange for polythene sheets. The polythene collected, amounting to over two metric tons, will be recycled, further mitigating the environmental impact of this sacred event.

“Sunlight has always been at the forefront of national causes that have a positive impact on our country. Through the ‘Manudamin Wadiyamak’ initiative, we aim to inspire each participant to adopt small changes in their behaviour that, when combined, lead to significant positive outcomes for our environment,” said Imeshika Kariyawasam, Marketing Director – Home Care & Nutrition, Unilever Sri Lanka. Kariyawasam added, “It’s not just about raising awareness; it’s about taking tangible steps to create a cleaner and greener Sri Lanka.”

The campaign also invited devotees to take an environmental pledge, with over 15,000 pledges representing a collective commitment to environmental awareness. In addition, Sunlight organized a “Nilmanel Flower Dansala,” distributing around 30,000 flowers to devotees, symbolizing the brand’s commitment to serving the community and the environment.

Yashasvi Liyanage, Category Head – Fabric Care, Unilever Sri Lanka, said, “Sunlight’s long-standing presence in Sri Lanka and unwavering commitment to sustainability made it the ideal brand to lead this initiative. We believe the brand’s ongoing efforts underscore its belief that every small act can contribute to extraordinary results, making Sri Lanka a better place for all.”

The ‘Manudamin Wadiyamak’ campaign is a testament to Unilever Sri Lanka’s enduring philosophy of making a lasting positive impact on the communities it serves and the environment, while ensuring that the principles of sustainability remain at the heart of everything the company does.

To pledge your support for this initiative, please visit: https://sunlightsrilanka.com/perahara/

The Sunlight team collects polyethylene and plastic for recycling during the Perahera, demonstrating their commitment to environmental sustainability

Caption under the photo: The Sunlight team replaces polyethylene and plastic films with biodegradable fabrics, and participants promote eco-friendly practices