🌿 IHRC and SHCCF Launch 100,000 Tree Planting Initiative in Sri Lanka

Dawid Szablowski — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 11:40:22 +0000

First Phase Targets Schools and Religious Centres in Ratnapura

Ratnapura, Sri Lanka – 19 October 2025

The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC Corporation), in collaboration with the Shri Hela Cultural Collaboration Foundation (SHCCF), has officially launched the first phase of the 100,000 Tree Planting Project in Ratnapura. The initiative, which aligns with the European Union’s Climate Pact, focuses on educational and religious institutions as key partners in addressing the global climate crisis.

The inaugural ceremony was held at St. Aloysius’ College in Ratnapura, coinciding with the institution’s 127th anniversary celebrations. The project’s opening activities were conducted simultaneously at three locations — St. Aloysius’ College, Ratnapura Maulli Kovil, and the Ananda Maithree Sangharaja Maha Viharaya in Ratnapura New Town.

Under the leadership of Mr. Anura Vitharana, Regional Coordinator for IHRC and President of the IHRC–SHCCF Environmental Protection Project, the program was organised with precision and community involvement. Students from the St. Aloysius’ College Scout Group played an active role, providing both labour and enthusiasm to ensure the project’s successful start.

“We are doing this for the future generation”

Addressing the participants, Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake, Commissioner of Sri Lanka for IHRC Corporation and Founder & Director General of SHCCF, stressed the urgency of global environmental action.

“The world is currently facing a massive challenge due to climate change. In response to this crisis, the International Human Rights Commission is actively implementing initiatives globally in line with the European Union’s Climate Pact. This 100,000 tree planting project in Sri Lanka is one such programme,”
said Dr. Dissanayake.

He reaffirmed IHRC’s long-term commitment to sustainable development, adding:

“We are doing all of this for the future generation, and we are committed at any moment to creating a safe environment for them.”

Dr. Dissanayake also extended warm congratulations to St. Aloysius’ College on its milestone anniversary, underlining IHRC’s readiness for continued collaboration with local institutions.

Community support and interfaith cooperation

The event brought together representatives from diverse faiths and institutions. Blessings were bestowed upon the gathering by Ven. Delwala Muditha Nayaka Thero, Chief Incumbent of the Ananda Maithree Sangharaja Maha Viharaya, and M. Mugunan Sami of the Ratnapura Maulli Kovil, symbolising harmony and shared responsibility for the environment.

Distinguished attendees included IHRC Commissioner Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake, IHRC SMM ZVC Mr. Anura Witharana, Mr. Kalpa Sri Lal, Mr. Pathum Madushan, Mr. Vihanga Dayawansa, and Dr. Ravi Naggaraja, Vice President of the United Nations Association. The Provincial Director of Education and several local dignitaries also honoured the ceremony with their presence.

The people of Ratnapura played a vital role in the project’s success, providing the saplings used in the tree planting. In recognition of their contributions, IHRC presented certificates of appreciation to all participants and partners.

This initiative represents not only an environmental milestone but also a testament to IHRC’s global mission of fostering intergovernmental cooperation, civic responsibility, and the preservation of natural ecosystems for generations to come.

Reported by:
Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake
Commissioner of Sri Lanka – Investigative Journalist, IHRC

Photographs by: Pethum Madhushan

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🟢 “A Tree for Syria” — Civil Society Unites for Environmental Renewal

Dawid Szablowski — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 10:01:01 +0000

2,000 Trees to Be Planted Along Damascus–Aleppo Highway
Maarrat al-Numan, June 2025

Planting Seeds of Hope

In an inspiring demonstration of solidarity and hope, Syrian civil society organisations have launched the “A Tree for Syria” initiative, targeting the planting of 2,000 trees along the Damascus–Aleppo highway near Maarrat al-Numan. This marks the first step in a broader national campaign to plant two million trees countrywide.

Key Organisations Participating:

Violet Organization
Taaluf Humanitaire International Organization
Sedad Humanitarian Organization
Impact Makers Network
Rural Development Association
Manarat Al-Hayat Association

Reviving Nature and Community

The campaign seeks to:

Restore vegetation cover in areas ravaged by conflict, fire, and desertification
Improve air quality and food security
Support environmental and social stability

Organisers emphasise:

“Agriculture is a message of life. Rebuilding Syria starts by planting hope before rebuilding infrastructure.”

The initiative has received strong support from local communities and volunteers, with growing calls to expand into other provinces.

Author:
Ahmed Mowas, IHRC Press Journalist

The post 🟢 “A Tree for Syria” — Civil Society Unites for Environmental Renewal first appeared on ihrc.news.

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