Club Hotel Dolphin leads Nipa Palm project to preserve Gin Oya river ecosystem

Wednesday, 23 October 2024 00:06 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Unveiling of the Nipa Palm Conservation signage

Club Hotel Dolphin General Manager Thurashat Niyathapala initiating the Nipa Palm Conservation Project

Nipa Palm Seed Nursery at Club Hotel Dolphin

School children at Nipa Palm Seed Nursery, Club Hotel Dolphin

Browns Hotels & Resorts has long been at the forefront of sustainability efforts, championing various initiatives to preserve and protect the environment.

On 26 July Club Hotel Dolphin in Waikkal, under Browns Hotels & Resorts, launched its newest sustainability initiative, the Nipa Palm Conservation Project in the Gin Oya area. This ambitious program aims to conserve the endangered Nipa Palm (Nypa fruticans), the only palm species found in mangroves, while fostering the preservation of the Gin Oya riverbanks, which has faced threats of erosion over the years.

The initiative began with the planting of 500 Nipa Palm seeds at the hotel’s dedicated mangrove nursery as the first step of a comprehensive five-year plan. This initial phase is crucial for nurturing young palms before they are transplanted to selected areas along the Gin Oya riverbanks. By nurturing the growth of these palms, the project seeks to stabilise the shores, thereby mitigating erosion and promoting a healthier ecosystem not just for neighbouring communities, but additionally for the area’s diverse array of species.

Club Hotel Dolphin General Manager Thurashat Niyathapala stated: “As the seedlings grow and the Nipa palms are eventually planted along Gin Oya’s banks, we remain dedicated to close monitoring and maintenance. The involvement of local residents in overseeing the plants ensures the project’s sustainability and encourages ongoing environmental stewardship.”

An awareness session led by Central Environment Authority Divisional Forest Officer Mahi Warunapriya, marked the launch of the Nipa Palm Conservation Project. The event was graced by members from the Environmental Police Wennappuwa, students from Jennings International School, villagers from Kammala and hoteliers from the Negombo Hotel Association, reflecting the collaborative spirit essential for environmental conservation. Under the guidance of Thurashat Niyathapala, Club Hotel Dolphin Resident Manager Thakshila Galappaththi and Club Hotel Dolphin Assistant Manager of Human Resources Madara Karunarathne the project is set to be a cornerstone of the hotel’s sustainability efforts. The project also garnered support from the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society (WNPS) and the Agriculture Department of Wayamba University, ensuring expert oversight and guidance throughout.