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Why Book Direct?
At Browns Hotels & Resorts, the best rate is guaranteed when you book your stay directly through our official website. You may also enjoy a host of benefits such as free unlimited Wi-Fi, room upgrades as well as early check-ins and late check-outs; subject to availability.
Nipa Palm Conservation Project

Club Hotel Dolphin Plants 500 Nipa Palm Seeds to Preserve Gin Oya Riverbank

26 Sep 2024

Browns Hotels & Resorts has long been at the forefront of sustainability efforts, championing various initiatives to preserve and protect the environment. On July 26th, Club Hotel Dolphin in Waikkal, under Browns Hotels & Resorts, launched its newest sustainability initiative, the Nipa Palm Conservation Project in the Gin Oya area. This ambitious program aims to conserve the endangered Nipa Palm (Nypa fruticans), the only palm species found in mangroves, while fostering the preservation of the riverbanks of Gin Oya, which has faced threats of erosion over the years.

The initiative began with the planting of 500 Nipa Palm seeds at the hotel’s dedicated mangrove nursery as the first step of a comprehensive five-year plan. This initial phase is crucial for nurturing young palms before they are transplanted to selected areas along the Gin Oya riverbanks. By nurturing the growth of these palms, the project seeks to stabilise the riverbanks, thereby mitigating erosion and promoting a healthier ecosystem not just for neighboring communities, but additionally for the area’s diverse array of species.

Thurashat Niyathapala, General Manager of Club Hotel Dolphin, stated, “As the seedlings grow and the Nipa palms are eventually planted along Gin Oya’s banks, we remain dedicated to close monitoring and maintenance. The involvement of local residents in overseeing the plants ensures the project’s sustainability and encourages ongoing environmental stewardship.”

An awareness session led by Mahi Warunapriya, the Divisional Forest Officer from the Central Environment Authority, marked the launch of the Nipa Palm Conservation Project. The event was graced by members from the Environmental Police Wennappuwa, students from Jennings International School, villagers from Kammala, and hoteliers from the Negombo Hotel Association, reflecting the collaborative spirit essential for environmental conservation. Under the guidance of Thurashat Niyathapala, Thakshila Galappaththi, Resident Manager – Club Hotel Dolphin and Madara Karunarathne, Assistant Manager of Human Resources – Club Hotel Dolphin, the project is set to be a cornerstone of the hotel’s sustainability efforts. The project also garnered support from the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society (WNPS) and the Agriculture Department of Wayamba University, ensuring expert oversight and guidance throughout.

Browns Hotels and Resorts, the leisure arm of Browns Investments, which is the investment arm of the LOLC Group, presents a distinguished portfolio of properties, including Thaala Bentota, Club Hotel Dolphin Negombo, The Calm Resort and Spa Pasikuda, Hotel Sigiriya, Dickwella Resort and Spa, Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort Sigiriya, Occidental Paradise Dambulla and Occidental Eden Beruwala, luxury boutique villas under Reveal the Collection and associate hotels Sheraton Kosgoda. From dedicated nature conservation efforts to impactful community empowerment projects, Browns Hotels & Resorts diligently strives to make a positive impact on both the environment and society at large.

Thurashat Niyathapala, General Manager of Club Hotel Dolphin initiating the Nipa Palm Conservation Project

 

Nipa Palm Seed Nursery in Club Hotel Dolphin

 

Students from Jennings International School participating in the conservation project