Aiming for 100,000 Saplings in Support of Climate Neutrality by 2050
Ratnapura District, Sri Lanka – 11 July 2025
IHRC and Sri Hela Foundation Unite for Environmental Action
The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC), in partnership with the Sri Hela Cultural Cooperation Foundation, has officially launched a large-scale tree planting initiative in Sri Lanka. The project, which commenced on 11 July 2025 in Diyahondawewa village, Kuruwita Divisional Secretariat, Ratnapura District, aims to plant 100,000 saplings as a concrete step toward combating climate change and fostering environmental stewardship. The initiative aligns with the European Climate Agreement’s target of achieving climate neutrality by 2050.
Leadership and Community Engagement
The project operates under the direct supervision of Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake, Commissioner for Sri Lanka at the International Human Rights Commission. Titled “Let’s Plant a Sapling to Give the Future Generation a Breath,” the programme will gradually expand to other regions of Sri Lanka.
Mr. Anura Witarana, IHRC Zonal Coordinator, has been appointed Chairman of the project and will lead its day-to-day execution and community mobilisation.
“Human rights are not just a legal matter. The International Human Rights Commission stands for all human rights, and we are at the forefront of world peace and humanitarian missions. We will step forward and assist in such humanitarian missions at any moment.”
— Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake, Commissioner, IHRC Sri Lanka / Founder and Chairman, Sri Hela Cultural Cooperation Foundation
Broad Participation and Recognition
The launch event was attended by key figures, including Dr. Dissanayake (also Founder/Chairman/Director-General of the Sri Hela Cultural Foundation), the Divisional Secretary of Kuruwita, the Officer-in-Charge of Kuruwita Police, regional and zonal IHRC coordinators, volunteers, and representatives of Diyahondawewa village – including the Grama Niladhari, a development officer, farmer’s society officials, and local villagers.
Notable participants included: Mr. S. Prabakar, Mr. Anura Vitharana, Mr. Udara Rathnayake, Mr. Vihaga Deshapriya, Mrs. Nisansala Wijekoon, Mrs. Dilki Saumya, Mr. Sarath Kumara, and others.
As a mark of appreciation, all participants received official certificates signed by Prof. Rafael Wasik, Secretary of the International Human Rights Commission, and Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake.
A Commitment to Future Generations
This tree planting initiative reflects IHRC’s belief that environmental protection is a fundamental human right and a pillar of global peace and sustainable development. By engaging communities, authorities, and civil society, IHRC and the Sri Hela Cultural Foundation aim to leave a lasting legacy for future generations.
Reported by:
Anura Vitharana
Zonal Volunteer Coordinator – IHRC Sri Lanka
flooding, climate change issues are key problems we are facing in my country Sierra Leone if we have the support we will achieve our goals of ending it
This is a very good action must appreciate it.
flooding, climate change issues are key problems we are facing in my country Sierra Leone if we have the support we will achieve our goals
This is a very good action must appreciate it. in current day world we are facing a huge climate change issues in the form of flooding land sliding, glacier breaking which create floods and water deficiency like problems. Deforestation created much problems. Now if we started such like actions I think we will reduce the impacts of climate changes. Also the biodiversity will stay safer.
100,000 trees=100,000 reasons to hope. This tree-planting project is such a beautiful step for our planet and future generations. Planting these saplings isn’t just about trees, it’s about hope, cleaner air, and a healthier world for the children who will come after us. Huge respect to everyone in the community and IHRC who are making this happen.Proud to stand with this cause and be part of such an inspiring movement.
Humanitarian Works, really.