Damith Pallewatte, Acting CEO, HNB (right) and K Indravasan, Chief Human Resource Officer, HNB (center) handing over a sapling to a HNB customer.
In celebration of the World Environment Day, HNB reaffirmed its commitment to environmental stewardship by distributing saplings to select customers and senior management, alongside renewing the Bank’s green pledge.
Distribution of saplings commenced featuring the participation of Damith Pallewatte, Acting Chief Executive Officer, HNB along with members of HNB’s senior management and staff. Aligned with the theme ‘Restore Our Earth’ the ceremony began with the renewal of the Green Pledge.
Following an inspiring speech from Pallewatte, Acting CEO the event culminated with the distribution of saplings, symbolizing the Bank’s dedication to fostering a greener future.
A total of 2,000 mango and jackfruit saplings were distributed to senior management and HNB customers, while additional saplings were also distributed across 48 branches in ten regions nationwide.
The saplings were handed out in recyclable bags made from alimana leaves, a common grass, sustainably sourced from an SME within HNB’s Gami Pubuduwa network of entrepreneurs.
“As an island nation blessed with rich biodiversity, we believe that Sri Lanka has an important role to play in accelerating progress on environmental conservation. Over the past year, all Sri Lankans have experienced the impacts of climate change first hand. From record breaking heatwaves, to extreme rainfall and flooding, it is clear that without strategic and decisive action, Sri Lanka is vulnerable. However, I believe we are also uniquely positioned to take leadership in the global fight against climate change.
“By leveraging the resilience, ingenuity, and innovate spirit of our nation, we are confident that Sri Lanka can show the world how to enhance climate resilience, establish true circular economic models, and develop a globally relevant blueprint for environmental sustainability. All sectors of the economy, including the banking industry will need to move in unison to achieve this vision. As an institution that is fundamentally connected to all sectors of the economy, we pledge to be part of the solution,” said Damith Pallewatte, Acting Chief Executive Officer, HNB.
He also elaborated on the importance of ecosystem restoration and commended the HNB staff for their continuous commitment to the Bank’s sustainability journey.
HNB has earmarked revenue generated through their green projects for further investment and has ambitious plans to advance both their sustainability agenda and that of the nation.
