Dilmah’s ‘Climate Forward’: energising green innovators for climate action

The term “climate change” is heard widely in modern business circles but the understanding of it is rather murky among the constituents. This global issue impacts all nations and industries, changing weather patterns, intensifying natural disasters, and threatening ecosystems. Rising temperatures disrupt agriculture, infrastructure, and public health, while changed rainfall patterns threaten water access, food production, and energy systems worldwide. Urgent mitigation and adaptation measures are crucial. Embracing its commitment to environmental sustainability, Dilmah launches ‘Climate Forward’, engaging undergraduates and postgraduates to innovate green solutions. The most promising innovations stand the chance to win up to Rs. 2 million in seed funding.

The competition has received an overwhelming number of applications and is currently onto reviewing and shortlisting the applicants for the next stage of the competition. The Climate Forward judging panel comprises of Dept of Civil Engineering, University of Moratuwa Professor Prof. Rangika Halwathura, Sr. Proffesor in Weed Science, University of Peradeniya Prof. Buddhika Marambe, Climate Action Committee, Ceylon Chamber of Commerce Co-chair Sheran Fernando and Modern Agri Pvt Ltd. Founder Bathiya Abeywardana.

The idea/prototypes were elicited to be under one of the following categories: Smart Agriculture and Nature-based Solutions, Sustainable Energy and Energy Efficiency, Sustainable Mobility Solutions, Water Management and conservation and Green Building and Sustainable Infrastructure. During the program’s run of 8-12 months, renowned industry experts will guide and mentor aspiring innovators to take their innovation beyond a concept.

This initiative aligns with the recently concluded Sri Lanka Climate Summit, that initiated discussions on business resilience and green growth that was in collaboration with the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, Dilmah Tea and USAID.

For more information visit: climateforward/dilmahtea.com