CLAUDE GUNASEKERA
COLOMBO : In a significant event for the sustainable tourism sector, a Q&A media session featuring prominent Environment and Development Global Leader Erik Solheim, is set to take place on January 25, 2026. The theme of the discussion is “Achieving Profitability through Sustainable Tourism”. The symposium is hosted by Thema Collections in collaboration with the Sustainable Tourism Association of Sri Lanka and will be held at Amba Yaalu, Kandalama on January 25.
“This event promises to delve into crucial discussions about achieving profitability through sustainable tourism practices and tourism stakeholders in Sri Lanka will have the unique opportunity to engage with Mr. Solheim, exploring innovative strategies that can shape the future of the tourism industry” said Chandra Wickramasinghe President Sustainable Tourism Association of Sri Lanka (SUSTOUR). He expressed enthusiasm for the event, emphasizing its importance in promoting sustainable practices within the tourism sector.
Chandra Wickramasinghe Chairman / Managing Director of Connaissance de Ceylan and founder of Thema Collection, and also the elected founder President of the newly formed Sustainable Tourism Association of Sri Lanka (SUSTOUR), Nalin Malwenna, Managing Director H.O.T. Tourism & Secretary SUSTOUR and Nishsanka De Silva, Founder Zero Plastic Movement, Committee Member SUSTOUR will sit together with Solheim in the panel.
Solheim continues to be active in the environmental and development spheres. He is the President of the Belt and Road Green Development Initiative in Beijing, a senior adviser at the World Resources Institute, and chief mentor to the Global Alliance for Sustainable Planet. He is also a Global Ambassador for the Global Solar Council, advocating for solar energy as the power of the 21st century.
Throughout his work, Solheim consistently articulates the belief that environmental protection and climate action are not burdens but significant opportunities for job creation, economic growth, and improved well-being. He champions a positive and inclusive approach to environmentalism, focusing on the benefits of a green economy and the potential for global cooperation to solve major challenges.
The programme will be moderated by Faraz Shauketaly renowned Broadcaster and Investigative journalist.
Tony N. Maheswaran Director of Strategic Planning, Business Processes Workflow – MTS Sri Lanka & Travelife Sustainability Coordinator in Sri Lanka For MTS Globe at House of Travels & Tourism (Pvt) Ltd and EXCO member SUSTOUR coordinates the panel discussion while the media coordination is handled by StarMedia. Ashan Karunananda, General Manager Sustainability & Business Development of Thema Collection takes responsiility in programme logistics.
Erik Solheim is also expected to attend an upcoming event in Colombo aimed at addressing the corporate sector on the vital topic of “Leveraging Green and Renewable Development for Economic Growth and Disaster Resilience in Sri Lanka.”
This event, organized by the Sustainable Tourism Association of Sri Lanka, aligns perfectly with Solheim’s current focus and the national priorities of Sri Lanka. As the nation continues to face environmental challenges, discussions surrounding green and renewable development have become increasingly relevant.
Solheim’s participation is anticipated to bring valuable insights and strategies to help businesses understand how they can contribute to sustainable practices while also fostering economic growth. The session aims to empower corporate leaders with knowledge on integrating sustainability into their business models, highlighting the potential for disaster resilience through eco-friendly practices. This is essential not just for the environment but also for the long-term economic viability of Sri Lanka. –
