Environment

In commemoration of the International Biodiversity Day, NDB Bank has once again demonstrated its commitment to environmental conservation, as CEO Kelum Edirisinghe and NDB staff volunteered for mangrove restoration activities. This on-going effort is part of the 'Life to Our Mangroves' project, a collaborative Public-Private-Community Partnership and Multi-Partner initiative between NDB Bank, Biodiversity Sri Lanka (BSL), the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC), Wayamba University (WUSL) and other private sector companies.

The project, initiated in 2022, has progressed successfully. The science-based approach has provided valuable insight to overcome challenges and obtain a better growth rate. Community involvement has also been a key element in this journey. By enhancing ecological functions, habitat quality, and species diversity, the project contributes to biodiversity and ecosystem services, aligning with NDB's commitment to sustainability.

During the restoration activities, volunteers, including the CEO and members of NDB's leadership team, planted 600 mangrove seeds and assisted in research activities on plant growth covering 03 hectares of the project site.  The Volunteers were also educated on the importance of the project, the benefits of the project, the challenges faced and the lessons learned. The highlight of this awareness session was the success stories shared by officials from BSL, DWC, and WUSL, evidencing the strides made through this Blue Carbon Project in mitigating Climate Change.

NDB's CEO, Kelum Edirisinghe, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, "NDB is proud to be at the forefront of this globally recognised initiative, where we are not just planting mangroves; we are restoring an entire ecosystem & the benefits that come with it. These ecological, economic and social benefits will not only be felt by the community but will cascade to the entire nation and will also create a sense of pride and purpose among our employees, as we work together towards a greener future."

Through initiatives like the 'Life to Our Mangroves' project, NDB Bank continues to lead by example in environmental stewardship, embodying its commitment to responsible business practices and sustainable value creation.

NDB Bank is the fourth-largest listed commercial bank in Sri Lanka. The Bank was named the Retail Bank of the Year (Sri Lanka) at Asian Banking & Finance Retail Banking Awards 2023 and the Best Corporate Bank 2023 by Asiamoney and also emerged as the Most Awarded Corporate in Sri Lanka in 2022 for the second consecutive year, as per the annual rankings of Sri Lankan publication LMD. The Bank was adjudged the Best Bank in Sri Lanka 2022 by Global Finance USA and Euromoney in their annual best bank awards programmes. Additionally, The Bank was named one of the "Top 50 Best Workplaces in Sri Lanka 2022" by Great Place To Work, USA. NDB is the parent company of the NDB Group, comprising capital market subsidiary companies, together forming a unique banking and capital market services group. The Bank is committed to empowering the nation and its people through meaningful financial and advisory services powered by digital banking solutions.

NDB Bank has entered into a groundbreaking partnership with Clean Ocean Force Lanka (COF) to launch two transformative projects aimed at combating marine pollution and fostering sustainable ecosystems. This collaboration makes NDB the first local bank to engage with COF for underwater dive clean-ups, marking a significant milestone in the Bank’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

The partnership includes two key initiatives: the Negombo Lagoon Cleanup Project and the Underwater Dive Cleanups and Reef Conservation Project. The Negombo Lagoon initiative targets the removal of plastic waste and pollutants from the lagoon and its surrounding mangroves, a critical ecosystem for biodiversity. In addition to cleanup efforts, the project aims to educate and engage the local community on the importance of protecting these fragile ecosystems, creating a long-term impact through awareness and conservation practices.

The Underwater Dive Cleanups project takes NDB’s efforts to greater depths, focusing on removing plastic and marine debris from coral reefs and ocean beds in strategic locations across Sri Lanka. By supporting COF’s underwater initiatives, NDB is actively contributing to the restoration of coral reefs, which are vital for marine biodiversity and coastal protection. This pioneering effort cements NDB’s leadership in environmental stewardship, as it becomes the first local bank to take on this crucial responsibility.

This partnership provides a platform for the Bank to address marine pollution through an integrated approach that tackles the issue at multiple levels. Speaking at the signing ceremony, Lasantha Dasanayake, Head of Group HR of NDB, emphasised, “As a responsible corporate citizen, we are committed to addressing urgent environmental challenges such as marine pollution. Through this partnership with COF, we aim to create a lasting impact on Sri Lanka’s marine ecosystems and inspire others to join this cause.”

This partnership is a reflection of NDB’s vision of building a sustainable future while enhancing its role as a leader in sustainability-driven initiatives. By expanding its marine conservation efforts to encompass beach, lagoon, and underwater ecosystems, NDB sets an example for the corporate sector, showcasing how businesses can contribute meaningfully to environmental preservation. Through these initiatives, NDB continues to uphold its commitment to creating a greener, more sustainable future for all.

NDB Bank is the fourth-largest listed commercial bank in Sri Lanka. NDB was named Sri Lanka's Best Bank for Corporates at Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2024 and was awarded Domestic Retail Bank of the Year - Sri Lanka and Sri Lanka Domestic Project Finance Bank of the Year by Asian Banking and Finance Magazine (Singapore) Awards 2024. NDB is the parent company of the NDB Group, comprising capital market subsidiary companies, together forming a unique banking and capital market services group. The Bank is committed to empowering the nation and its people through meaningful financial and advisory services powered by digital banking solutions.

Twenty-four staff members from NDB Bank participated in a meaningful volunteer initiative on 10 October 2025 at the Anawilundawa Wetland Sanctuary, a vital Ramsar site in Sri Lanka. The programme was conducted under the Life of Our Mangrove project, in collaboration with Biodiversity Sri Lanka (BSL) and The Wildlife & Nature Protection Society (WNPS).

The session began with representatives from BSL and WNPS briefing the volunteers on the project’s objectives and the ecological importance of mangrove restoration. Participants were also introduced to invasive species in the area, with special emphasis on Ipil Ipil (Leucaena leucocephala), which poses a significant threat to the Anawilundawa Wetland Sanctuary. Following the briefing, volunteers were divided into four groups to conduct a systematic vegetation survey, identifying and documenting the spread of Ipil Ipil and other plant species across allocated plots. The team also planted 150 true mangrove seedlings, contributing directly to habitat restoration.

The data collected during this exercise will serve as the baseline study for the project team, enabling them to plan and execute the targeted removal of invasive Ipil Ipil. This science-based approach ensures that restoration efforts are well-informed and effective. Through their active participation, NDB staff contributed directly to safeguarding one of Sri Lanka’s most ecologically significant wetland environments. The programme reflects the bank’s commitment to environmental stewardship and collaborative conservation action.

This ongoing effort is part of the Life of Our Mangroves project, a collaborative Public-Private-Community Partnership and multi-partner initiative involving NDB Bank, BSL, the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC), Wayamba University (WUSL), and other private sector partners. NDB partnered with ‘Biodiversity Sri Lanka’ (BSL) to restore 1 hectare of degraded mangrove forest, within a period of 5 years. Since its inception in 2022, the project has progressed successfully. The science-based approach has provided valuable insights to overcome challenges and achieve better mangrove growth rates. Community involvement has also been a key element of this journey.

By enhancing ecological functions, habitat quality, and species diversity, the project contributes significantly to biodiversity and ecosystem services, aligning closely with NDB’s commitment to sustainability.

NDB Bank continues to lead the way in corporate sustainability with its renewed commitment to environmental conservation. On November 21, 2024, the Bank marked another milestone by entering into a MOU with the Sri Lanka Climate Fund (SLCF) to undertake a comprehensive Greenhouse Gas (GHG) assessment and verification for the fiscal year 2024.

The partnership with SLCF, South Asia’s first ISO 14064 Accredited Organisation, is a reflection of NDB’s ongoing efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and integrate sustainable practices into its operations. The GHG assessment, also known as the Carbon Footprint Verification, will encompass NDB's Head Office and its extensive branch network. This rigorous evaluation aims to identify areas for improvement and guide the Bank in its journey toward becoming a carbon-neutral organisation.

A crucial component of the initiative involves training sessions conducted by GHG experts from SLCF. These sessions will equip NDB employees, including senior management, with the knowledge to understand and manage carbon emissions with the aim of fostering a culture of sustainability.

This initiative builds upon NDB’s previous accomplishments in reducing its environmental impact. Notable efforts include adopting eco-friendly practices such as energy-efficient lighting, optimised air conditioning systems, and digital banking solutions like the NDB NEOS app, which minimises customer travel to branches, further reducing emissions.

Lasantha Dasanayaka, Chairperson of NDB’s Corporate Sustainability Committee, stated, “Climate action is at the forefront of our sustainability agenda. Through partnerships with industry experts like SLCF, we aim to adopt best practices, increase efficiencies, and make a meaningful impact on the planet. This year’s GHG assessment will allow us to identify new opportunities to minimise our environmental footprint and take significant steps toward achieving carbon neutrality.”

NDB’s dedication to climate action embodies its broader strategy of creating long-term value for the planet, its stakeholders, and the nation. Its efforts to proactively address climate challenges reaffirm the Bank’s position as a responsible corporate citizen committed to building a sustainable future. 

NDB Bank is the fourth-largest listed commercial bank in Sri Lanka. NDB was named Sri Lanka's Best Bank for Corporates at Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2024 and was awarded Domestic Retail Bank of the Year - Sri Lanka and Sri Lanka Domestic Project Finance Bank of the Year by Asian Banking and Finance Magazine (Singapore) Awards 2024. NDB is the parent company of the NDB Group, comprising capital market subsidiary companies, together forming a unique banking and capital market services group. The Bank is committed to empowering the nation and its people through meaningful financial and advisory services powered by digital banking solutions.

NDB Bank became the first local bank to partner with Clean Ocean Force Lanka to support marine conservation through underwater clean-ups. To date 03 dives have been completed at the Bar Reef Marine Protected Area and the east Coast near Barberyn Island. A dedicated team of six divers conducted the deep-sea dives, successfully removing over 130kgs of harmful marine debris from these ecologically significant sites.  

This initiative, carried out under NDB Bank’s sustainability agenda, directly supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water)—preserving and sustainably managing ocean resources. The dive team, consisting of professionals from Clean Ocean Force, Earth Lanka, and Kalpitiya Dive Center, braved off-shore conditions to clear:  

- 90kgs of ghost nets, which pose a lethal threat to marine life  

- 38kg of plastic and polythene waste, which degrade fragile marine ecosystems  

- 5kg of abandoned fishing hooks, reducing hazards to fish populations and coral reefs  

NDB Bank’s partnership with Clean Ocean Force Lanka, marks another milestone in the Bank’s ongoing efforts to protect Sri Lanka’s marine biodiversity and the Bank continues to lead in environmental stewardship, ensuring that future generations inherit a cleaner, healthier ocean.  

Commenting on this initiative, the Head of NDB Bank’s Corporate Sustainability Committee Lasantha Dassanayake, stated, "Our oceans are invaluable, and preserving them is not just an environmental responsibility but a legacy we must uphold. At NDB Bank, sustainability is embedded in our corporate ethos, and this cleanup is a testament to our commitment to meaningful environmental action. By supporting marine conservation efforts, we are not only protecting Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity but also inspiring communities to take proactive steps towards a cleaner, more sustainable future."  

Jerome Fernando, Chairman and Founder of Clean Ocean Force Lanka, also commended the partnership, stating, "It is truly commendable that a responsible local bank has stepped forward to protect life under water—this makes NDB Bank the first of its kind to champion such focused marine conservation. Their support sets a precedent for how corporate leadership can drive real environmental change in Sri Lanka."

Through corporate and community-driven conservation efforts, NDB Bank remains committed to safeguarding Sri Lanka’s natural resources and reinforcing its role as a trusted partner in sustainable development.  

NDB Bank recently organised a beach clean-up initiative at Kapumgoda Beach, Pamunugama, as part of the Bank’s "Adopt a Beach" project. This event, held in partnership with Clean Ocean Force Lanka, is a reflection of NDB’s commitment to environmental sustainability and community engagement. On Saturday, November 9, 2024, over 100 NDB employees volunteered their time and effort to help protect the coastline and address the issue of marine pollution affecting Sri Lanka’s beaches.

The "Adopt a Beach" initiative, in which NDB has taken responsibility for a stretch of Kapumgoda Beach, ensures regular cleaning efforts while supporting the local community. Notably, the project includes a focus on the livelihood development of women in the Kapumgoda community, furthering NDB’s commitment to empowering communities and creating sustainable, positive change.

Throughout the event, NDB employees worked together to collect litter and debris, significantly reducing pollution on the beach, amounting to a total of over 400 kg. The collected waste was sorted, with recyclable materials sent for processing, aligning with NDB’s dedication to promoting environmental consciousness and fostering sustainable practices.

This clean-up event was an embodiment of NDB’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, emphasising employee volunteerism and proactive engagement in tackling pressing environmental issues. Through the "Adopt a Beach" initiative, NDB aims not only to contribute to cleaner oceans but also to inspire collective action for a healthier environment.

Commenting on this initiative, Lasantha Dsanayake, VP Group HR, and the Chairperson of the Bank’s Sustainability Committee said, “The Bank ‘adopted’ this stretch of beach in 2023, and today marks the culmination of this project with over 100 staff present to ensure we give back to the community a clean beach. It’s not only one day of the year that we clean this beach; we have partnered with ‘Clean Ocean Force’ to clean this beach daily. To date, over 7,400 kg of debris and trash have been collected from this beach since the day the beach was adopted. We are pleased to say that NDB will be extending the project for another year to ensure sustainability and a clean beach for the community. This project not only ensures environmental conservation and pollution control but also encompasses livelihood development and poverty alleviation—key areas in the Bank’s sustainability agenda.”

Adding to this sentiment, Jerome Fernando, Founder and Chairman of Clean Ocean Force, commented, “Today marks a very special day because NDB Bank partnered with Clean Ocean Force a year ago to ‘Adopt’ this beach at Kapumgoda. ‘Adopting’ a beach means that this beach is cleaned on a daily basis. The importance of daily clean-ups is that the trash brought in by the waves onto the shore is cleaned daily, thus preventing the trash from going back into the ocean. This protects marine life as well as humans. The importance of this beach at Kapumgoda is that it is a public beach, and beaches play a very vital role in the blue economy of Sri Lanka. We empower women who are from very low economic status in the community, thereby ensuring they have a sustainable livelihood. The trash is collected daily, weighed, sorted, and all recyclable material given to recyclers.”

NDB Bank extends its gratitude to Clean Ocean Force Lanka, the authorities involved, and each employee who participated in this meaningful activity. This initiative underscores NDB’s on-going commitment to driving sustainable change and empowering communities to contribute positively to the environment.

NDB Bank extends its gratitude to Clean Ocean Force Lanka, the Authorities involved and to each employee who participated in this meaningful activity. This initiative underscores NDB’s on-going commitment to driving sustainable change and empowering communities to contribute positively to the environment.

NDB Bank is the fourth-largest listed commercial bank in Sri Lanka. NDB was named Sri Lanka's Best Bank for Corporates at Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2024 and was awarded Domestic Retail Bank of the Year - Sri Lanka and Sri Lanka Domestic Project Finance Bank of the Year by Asian Banking and Finance Magazine (Singapore) Awards 2024. NDB is the parent company of the NDB Group, comprising capital market subsidiary companies, together forming a unique banking and capital market services group. The Bank is committed to empowering the nation and its people through meaningful financial and advisory services powered by digital banking solutions.