Preserving Paradise: Maha Induruwa Beach Cleanup 2024

On November 7, 2024, Walkers Tours spearheaded a landmark coastal conservation event at Maha Induruwa Beach, Galle. Collaborating with Arthur D. Little, Nasser Air Travel – Xperienz Holiday and Parley Sri Lanka, we united a dedicated group of over 470 international volunteers. These environmentally-conscious participants, clients of Walkers Tours Middle East Market, joined hands in a shared mission to protect Sri Lanka’s pristine beaches and marine ecosystems.

Walkers Tours played a pivotal role in orchestrating the event, seamlessly coordinating communication between Parley Sri Lanka and our esteemed partners, Arthur D. Little and Nasser Air Travel – Xperienz Holiday. From scouting beaches that required immediate attention to securing the necessary permissions and health and safety measures, every detail was meticulously planned. The event was a testament to our commitment to delivering sustainable tourism experiences, showcasing Sri Lanka’s natural beauty while fostering responsible travel habits.
The cleanup spanned 550 meters of the breathtaking Maha Induruwa coastline, covering an impressive area of approximately 12,582 m². Over two hours, volunteers removed 682 kg of waste, including 319 kg of plastic, 48 kg of glass and metal, and 315 kg of non-recyclable materials. Recyclables were directed to regional facilities, where first-grade plastics were transformed into yarn, and second-grade plastics were repurposed into brush fibers. Other waste was handled responsibly through municipal channels, demonstrating our dedication to the circular economy and sustainable waste management.

Beyond the cleanup itself, the event featured an engaging awareness session led by Parley Sri Lanka, educating participants on the importance of coastal conservation. Walkers Tours coordinated all ground handling for the volunteers, ensuring their safety and comfort with well-placed beach huts, vegan refreshments, water stations, and first aid provisions. The initiative adhered to a strict no-single-use-plastic policy, further reinforcing our commitment to protecting the environment.

The overwhelming enthusiasm of our volunteers, who left inspired by their tangible impact, has set the stage for this initiative to become a tradition. Walkers Tours remains steadfast in its commitment to environmental stewardship, connecting global travelers with meaningful opportunities to contribute to preserving Sri Lanka’s unparalleled natural beauty.

We extend our deepest gratitude to our partners and volunteers for making this event a resounding success. A special thank you goes to the Sri Lanka Police for their collaboration and provision of necessary security, the Bentota Municipal Council for their invaluable assistance in disposing of the collected waste, and the Coastal Conservation Authority for offering their expert insights. Together, we are not just cleaning beaches but fostering a legacy of responsible tourism and environmental care. Let’s continue to work hand in hand to preserve the paradise we all treasure.