AMBA YAALU Kandalama

'ACHIEVING PROFITABILITY THROUGH SUSTAINABLE TOURISM'

- BY SANATH WEERASURIYA

As Sri Lanka prepares for a new wave of global travellers for 2026, sustainability has moved from being an option to an obligation. From rainforests and wildlife reserves to ancient cities and living traditions, the island's greatest assets are also its most vulnerable. Safeguarding this natural and cultural wealth, while ensuring tourism continues to uplift local communities, has become central to the country's tourism narrative. With arrivals expected to rise sharply in 2026, Sri Lanka is positioning sustainable tourism not just as a policy goal, but as a promise to future generations and to travellers seeking meaningful, responsible journeys.

The foundations of a sustainable tourism sector rest on environmental protection, socio-cultural respect, economic viability, responsible management and regenerative tourism. Sustainable tourism is designed to minimise adverse impacts while enhancing positive outcomes for local environments, cultures and economies. It seeks to strike a careful balance between the expectations of travellers, the growth of the industry and the wellbeing of host communities, ensuring that natural and cultural resources are preserved for generations to come. Key strategies include reducing environmental footprints, strengthening local livelihoods and encouraging responsible travel behaviour.