Expolanka: Driving Sustainability Through Purposeful Initiatives

Sustainability and corporate governance are two closely interlinked concepts that play a crucial role in shaping responsible and ethical business practices. When companies integrate sustainability principles into their corporate governance frameworks, they not only contribute to environmental and social well-being but also enhance long-term value creation and risk management. In an era where corporate responsibility has gained much prominence, Expolanka Holdings PLC stands out as a beacon of sustainable business practices. The company has engraved sustainability into its core values, creating a harmonious synergy between business growth, environmental preservation and social impact. At the heart of Expolanka’s sustainability efforts lies a commitment to long-term endeavours that enhance societal goals.

The Yahaguna Padanama Foundation, founded by Expolanka Holdings PLC, strives to create a culture of giving. The foundation provides meals for up to 350 OPD patients a day; Strategically located around 6 hospitals the facility offers a healthy nutritious meal and a calm, clean space to ease their burdens. Beyond any corporate social responsibility, the employees across the group volunteer their time to serve the less fortunate. While anchoring on active empathy as the cornerstone and understanding various difficulties people face, especially in this current economic landscape, the foundation continues to work towards bringing relief to those in need.

Empowering local communities, one of Expolanka’s flagship projects is the Reforesting Project in Bundala, Sri Lanka. In 2019, the company adopted 600 acres of the Bundala National Park intending to replant 125,000 trees over five years. This initiative not only contributes to environmental conservation but takes on a holistic approach by contributing to the social well-being of the surrounding local community. The group goes beyond environmental efforts by actively engaging with the communities around this area as well as creating employment opportunities for local community members who reside near the park and upgrading the quality of education at the Bundala Primary School, which is one of Sri Lanka’s oldest schools, by providing stationery and essential items to students.

Addressing water scarcity in South Africa, Expolanka identified a pressing issue – the scarcity of a dependable and clean water supply for many communities. The company, in collaboration with Roundabout Water Solutions, a local South African non-profit, took a unique approach to address this challenge, identifying a rural school, located two hours from the capital, and installing a ‘Play Pump’ apparatus. The ‘Play Pump’ is a brilliant example of innovation, combining play with utility. As children engage in play, the apparatus through a rotational movement pumps clean drinkable groundwater into an overhead tank. This not only ensures a sustainable water supply but also improves the overall health and wellbeing of the children, and the surrounding local community, who have direct access to the pump. To date, Expolanka manages seven play pumps in total across rural villages in South Africa promoting healthy and safe lifestyles. Through this initiative, Expolanka Holdings PLC exemplifies its commitment to finding innovative solutions to pressing societal issues.

The company’s sustainability efforts serve as a blueprint for other corporations aiming to integrate purpose and profit. By actively participating in projects that align with the UN’s SDGs, the company not only contributes to global goals but also sets an example for the industry. The group is not just facilitating sustainable business practices; it is nurturing a culture of responsibility and compassion. By empowering local communities, addressing environmental concerns, and actively supporting disaster relief, the company stands as a testament to the transformative power of business when driven by a commitment to sustainability and societal well-being. The group’s dedication to sustainability goes beyond mere compliance; it is a fundamental aspect of their identity. By embracing the challenges of today, the company is building a foundation for a greener, more equitable, and sustainable tomorrow.