Innovation Rooted in Nature: Artisans Leading Change in Kurunegala

The third Artisan Meetup in the ZeroPlastic series was held on 10th January at the Kurunegala Town Hall, bringing together a diverse group of craftsmen committed to sustainable production. The day was made even more impactful with a coconut shell crafting workshop, showcasing innovation through natural materials.

Artisans spoke openly about long-standing challenges; unreliable income streams, dependence on intermediaries, and the growing dominance of plastic substitutes in the market. These conversations highlighted the urgent need for systems that directly connect artisans with conscious consumers.

The coconut shell workshop demonstrated how waste materials can be transformed into high-value, eco-friendly products through creativity and skill. It was a powerful reminder that sustainability is not about compromise, but about reimagining value.

This session also included discussions around product selection, quality standards, and future market opportunities under ZeroPlastic’s upcoming initiatives, including the ZeroPlastic Impact Center concept.

Kurunegala stood out as a moment of momentum where dialogue met demonstration. It showed that with the right support, artisans can lead the transition away from plastic while strengthening local economies.