A Step Towards a Sustainable Tomorrow
In a heartfelt effort to promote environmental stewardship and inspire meaningful collective action, the Clean & Green community service project was proudly organized by the Community Service Avenue of the Rotaract Club of University of Colombo School of Computing (UCSC). This inspiring initiative unfolded in two impactful phases, uniting dedicated Rotaractors and volunteers under a shared vision; to give back to the environment and foster a cleaner, greener future for all.
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Over several hours, the team worked tirelessly to collect, sort, and properly dispose of waste materials. In doing so, they not only revitalized the coastline’s appearance but also took an important step in reducing threats to marine life, which often mistake plastics for food or become entangled in waste. |
The idea for Clean & Green was born from the club’s commitment to sustainability, civic responsibility, and service above self. With environmental issues such as pollution, climate change, and habitat destruction becoming increasingly urgent, the project was designed to address these concerns on a grassroots level. By focusing on two vital public spaces, the Mount Lavinia Beach and the Dehiwala Zoo, the project aimed not only to clean and restore these areas but also to create awareness about the larger implications of environmental neglect.
Phase One – Mount Lavinia Beach Cleanup
Phase One of Clean & Green kicked off on Wednesday, January 22nd, at the popular Mount Lavinia Beach, beginning at 1 PM. Under the warm afternoon sun and the rhythmic sound of the waves, a large group of volunteers came together, armed with gloves, trash bags, and an unshakable sense of purpose. Their mission was clear: to tackle the mounting pollution along the shore, plastic bottles, food wrappers, polythene bags, and other debris that threatened the beauty and biodiversity of the beach. Over several hours, the team worked tirelessly to collect, sort, and properly dispose of waste materials. In doing so, they not only revitalized the coastline’s appearance but also took an important step in reducing threats to marine life, which often mistake plastics for food or become entangled in waste. What made this cleanup more than just a physical effort was the spirit it carried. Throughout the activity, volunteers shared stories, discussed environmental issues, and even engaged curious onlookers, spreading the message of sustainability to the broader community. The beach cleanup became an opportunity for learning and reflection, a reminder of the impact of individual choices and the importance of collective action in protecting Sri Lanka’s precious natural resources.
Phase Two – Dehiwala Zoo Cleanup
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The momentum continued on Friday, May 23rd, with Phase 2 taking place at the Dehiwala Zoo, a cherished sanctuary for many of Sri Lanka’s native and exotic animal species. |
The momentum continued on Friday, May 23rd, with Phase 2 taking place at the Dehiwala Zoo, a cherished sanctuary for many of Sri Lanka’s native and exotic animal species. This time, volunteers focused on a different kind of environment, one that blends human care with wildlife preservation. From cleaning animal enclosures and walkways to clearing public spaces of litter, the team played a key role in improving hygiene and aesthetics within the zoo. These efforts directly contributed to the well-being of the animals and created a more pleasant experience for the thousands of visitors who come to learn about wildlife and nature.
But the experience went far beyond cleaning. Volunteers were given a closer look into the daily workings of the zoo, learning about the feeding routines, veterinary care, and habitat maintenance involved in animal management. They also had the chance to observe and appreciate the animals up close, fostering a deeper connection with the creatures they were helping to protect. For many, it was a humbling and eye-opening experience, a chance to reconnect with nature and understand the delicate balance between human activity and wildlife welfare.
More Than Just a Cleanup
Clean & Green was not simply about cleaning public spaces; it was about igniting a sense of responsibility and leadership among youth. The project served as a platform for volunteers to grow, connect, and contribute meaningfully to their community. For some, it was their first experience participating in such an initiative, while for others, it reaffirmed their commitment to creating sustainable change. The project also demonstrated the effectiveness of organized, well-coordinated community service. From pre-event planning, logistics, and safety protocols to teamwork on the ground, Clean & Green showcased how student-led initiatives can create visible, lasting impacts when supported by a clear vision and collective willpower.
A Rotaract Commitment to Change
The Rotaract Club of UCSC has long been known for its active engagement in community development, youth empowerment, and sustainable action. Clean & Green stands as yet another testament to the club’s dedication to the core Rotaract values of fellowship, integrity, and service. With the success of this project, the club hopes to inspire more students and young professionals to take an active role in environmental conservation. Plans are already underway to continue similar projects in the future, expanding the reach to new locations, collaborating with environmental experts, and engaging in long-term awareness campaigns.
Conclusion: A Greener Tomorrow Starts Today
Together, both phases of the Clean & Green project beautifully embodied the power of grassroots action. It wasn’t just about removing trash or scrubbing walls, it was a movement built on empathy, responsibility, and a shared love for the planet. Every volunteer, every bag of waste collected, every conversation sparked along the way added up to something greater than the sum of its parts. When communities come together with purpose, we move one step closer to a sustainable tomorrow, where humans live in harmony with nature, and future generations inherit a cleaner, safer world.
