Under the project “Fostering Climate Change Action Ambassadors: Empowering Youth for Climate Resilience,” funded by HSBC and implemented by Janathakshan, a total of 15 innovative sub-projects led by university students across Sri Lanka were successfully supported and guided during the final quarter of 2025.
The supported sub-projects demonstrated practical, community-oriented solutions to climate challenges. These included initiatives such as pollinator conservation for ecosystem resilience, coastal pollution mitigation, urban forestry, rainwater harvesting, biogas production from organic waste, coral reef restoration, climate-smart agriculture practices, and innovative approaches like IoT-based weather monitoring systems and eco-friendly construction materials using recycled plastics.
Following a competitive selection process, these sub-projects were chosen for their creativity, relevance, and potential to address pressing climate challenges through locally driven solutions. Representing universities including the University of Peradeniya, University of Jaffna, University of Kelaniya, University of Ruhuna, and Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, the selected youth-led initiatives covered a diverse range of thematic areas such as climate adaptation, climate mitigation, renewable energy, waste management, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable agriculture.
From 1st October to 1st December 2025, the Janathakshan team, together with HSBC representatives, closely monitored and mentored the Climate Change Action Ambassadors through a series of field visits and regular engagement meetings. These interactions ensured that the projects were implemented effectively while also providing technical guidance, strategic direction, and continuous encouragement to the young innovators.
By working directly within their communities and academic environments, these youth leaders translated theoretical knowledge into real-world impact. Their efforts not only contributed to strengthening climate resilience at the local level but also fostered a new generation of environmentally conscious leaders equipped with the skills and experience to drive sustainable change.
This initiative highlights the power of youth engagement in addressing climate change and reinforces the importance of partnerships in scaling grassroots innovations. Through continuous mentorship and collaboration, Janathakshan and HSBC remain committed to nurturing these Climate Change Action Ambassadors as catalysts for a more resilient and sustainable future.
