Planting Hope: Browns Roots Project Achieves ISO Recognition for Climate Action

ONCE a land where lush green forests covered more than half of Sri Lanka, today, only less than a third remains.

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Each year, a debilitating 7,000 hectares silently disappears, taking with it not just trees and wildlife but the hope of our nation's future generations. In response to this, Browns Tours and Ceylon Roots, the global and inbound destination management companies of Browns Investments, the investment arm of the LOLC and Browns Group had initiated the 'Browns Roots Project', to reaffirm their commitment to protecting and restoring Sri Lanka's natural heritage.

What began as a heartfelt commitment to plant one sapling for every traveller booking made through Ceylon Roots has today grown exponentially into a restorative initiative of global recognition. The Browns Roots Project is aligned with Browns Plantations' long-term plan for obtaining carbon neutral credits, with certifications issued by the Sri Lanka Climate Fund. The initiative seamlessly integrates tourism with reforestation, uniting together Sri Lanka's expansive forests, the journeys of travellers, and a spark of hope for tomorrow.

One of the project's flagship efforts, the Pilot Afforestation for Climate Resilience in Ella (1 Acre), has been recognised by Eco Check Global Pvt Ltd., under the globally renowned ISO 14064-2:2019 standard. The certification authenticates project-level greenhouse gas quantification and reporting, reaffirming Browns Roots' role and commitment as a credible source for climate action, not just locally, but internationally as well.