- Jetwing Hotels brings industry leaders together for an insightful discussion
Jetwing Colombo Seven on Tuesday (21) became the stage for a crucial dialogue on Sri Lanka’s tourism industry and its path to sustainability. The panel discussion, hosted by Jetwing Hotels, brought together some of the most prominent voices in the field to explore the opportunities and challenges of climate-friendly travel. It was an event that combined passion, expertise, and a shared vision for a more sustainable future.
Moderated by Jetwing Hotels Manager of Sustainability Sashika Kaluwahewa, the panel featured an impressive lineup of experts: Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) and Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) Chair Buddhika Hewawasam, Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority (SLSEA) Deputy General Director Harsha Wickramasinghe, Ernst and Young Senior Director of Climate Change and Sustainability Services Sampath Jayawardena, and Jetwing Symphony PLC Chair Hiran Cooray.
The audience was equally diverse, ranging from public sector officials and media representatives to academics, travel industry stakeholders, and members of development agencies. Together, they contributed to a lively and thought-provoking discussion that underscored the importance of collaboration in shaping the future of Sri Lanka’s tourism.
Collaboration as the foundation
“Tourism is one of the most interconnected industries. If we don’t work together, we won’t survive,” said Hewawasam, setting the tone for the evening. He emphasised that the success of sustainable tourism hinges on partnerships among hoteliers, travel agents, suppliers, and local communities.
Hewawasam painted a picture of a tourism ecosystem that thrives on collaboration. “It’s not about competition anymore; it’s about cooperation. We must pool resources and exchange knowledge to create an integrated and sustainable industry,” he said.
He also spoke about the importance of a strong marketing strategy that would showcase Sri Lanka’s diverse offerings, from its pristine beaches to its cultural and ecological treasures. “We have so much to offer. But we need to tell our story more effectively, and that requires a united front,” he added.
The road to carbon neutrality
For Wickramasinghe, the goal was ambitious but necessary: Achieving carbon neutrality for Sri Lanka. “This is not a pipe dream,” he declared. “It’s a realistic target, but it requires strong collaboration between the public and private sectors.”
Wickramasinghe outlined some of the regulatory measures currently being implemented, as well as those in the pipeline, to support the transition to sustainable tourism. He also highlighted the availability of climate financing mechanisms that could ease the burden on businesses looking to adopt greener practices.
“We’ve faced crises before, from economic downturns to the pandemic,” he said. “But every crisis is also an opportunity. This is our chance to rebuild tourism in a way that prioritises both people and the planet. The time for action is now.”
A call for urgent change
Jayawardena’s message was one of urgency. He warned that the global landscape for tourism was changing rapidly, and Sri Lanka risked falling behind if it failed to adapt. “The European Union is leading the way with strict sustainability standards. If we don’t align ourselves with these changes, we will lose our competitive edge,” he said.
He urged businesses to rethink their operations and move away from traditional, unsustainable practices. “Sustainability is no longer a choice; it’s a necessity. This is not just about meeting regulations; it’s about securing our future in the global market,” he emphasised.
Jayawardena also touched on the evolving expectations of travellers, particularly those from younger generations. “Today’s tourists are looking for experiences that align with their values. They want to know that their travel is not harming the environment or local communities. We need to meet that demand if we want to stay relevant,” he said.
Reimagining Sri Lanka’s tourism
Cooray, a veteran in the hospitality industry, brought a sense of hope and optimism to the discussion. “Sri Lanka has always been a storyteller’s dream,” he said. “Our cultural heritage and natural beauty are unmatched. Why not use that to position ourselves as a global leader in sustainable tourism?”
He advocated for the concept of ‘slow travel’, which encourages tourists to spend more time in a destination, exploring it in-depth rather than rushing through popular hotspots. “It’s about quality over quantity,” he explained. “By promoting lesser-known destinations and encouraging travellers to immerse themselves in local culture, we can create a more meaningful tourism experience.”
Cooray also highlighted the role of destination management companies (DMCs) in promoting these ideas. “DMCs have the power to shape travel itineraries and introduce visitors to the hidden gems of our island,” he said. “They are key players in transforming how we approach tourism.”
Cooray concluded with a powerful statement: “Amidst global uncertainty, Sri Lanka has a chance to lead by example. We can show the world that sustainable tourism is not just an aspiration but a reality.”
Jetwing’s commitment to sustainability
Jetwing Hotels has long been a trailblazer in the field of sustainability, and the event served as an opportunity to celebrate their recent achievements. The company announced the expansion of its solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity by 1.6 megawatts, tripling its solar energy contribution to 24% of its total electricity consumption.
Since installing its first solar PV system in 2010, Jetwing has steadily increased its renewable energy footprint. Today, 66% of its energy needs are met through renewable sources, including biomass boilers, biogas digesters, and solar thermal systems.
“These numbers aren’t just statistics; they represent a commitment to doing things differently,” said Kaluwahewa. “Our goal is to lead by example and show that sustainability is not just possible but profitable.”
Jetwing’s efforts have earned them international recognition, with accolades from the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) and the International Centre for Responsible Travel (ICRT). These awards not only affirm the company’s leadership in climate action but also elevate Sri Lanka’s reputation on the global stage.
Challenges and opportunities
While the discussion highlighted many achievements, it also acknowledged the challenges ahead. From financial constraints to policy gaps, the path to sustainable tourism is fraught with obstacles.
“There’s no denying that this is a complex issue,” said Wickramasinghe. “But complexity is not an excuse for inaction. If anything, it’s a call to double down on our efforts.”
Hewawasam echoed this sentiment, pointing to the need for better infrastructure and education. “Sustainability is not just about what we build; it’s about how we think. We need to change mindsets at every level, from policymakers to local communities,” he said.
A shared responsibility
The panel discussion underscored the need for a collective approach to sustainability. As Wickramasinghe aptly put it: “Sustainability isn’t a destination; it’s a journey, one that requires all of us to play our part.”
From ambitious goals like carbon neutrality to innovative concepts like slow travel, the conversation offered a glimpse into the future of Sri Lanka’s tourism. It’s a future that prioritises resilience, inclusivity, and environmental stewardship.
As the event drew to a close, the message was clear: Sri Lanka has the potential to lead the global shift towards sustainable tourism. But achieving that vision will require not just ambition but action – a commitment from all sectors to work together for a greener, more sustainable tomorrow.
PHOTOS Krishan Kariyawasam