The grounds of Gangarama Temple in Wadduwa became the canvas for a vibrant act of environmental stewardship on November 13, 2025. The ZeroPlastic Colombo Community of the University of Colombo launched its inspiring initiative, “Thuru”, a project whose very name symbolizes trees and the life they bring. From 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., a group of 19 dedicated university volunteers transformed their energy, enthusiasm, and care into tangible change, turning saplings into symbols of hope for the future.

Together, the team donated 21 young trees, including Kaluwara, Teak, Mee, Mahogany, and Nahar, and actively planted several of them, tending to their surroundings to ensure safe growth. The volunteers also cleared fences and prepared the area, creating an environment where each tree could thrive. As hands dug into the soil and saplings took root, the activity became more than a planting exercise—it became a lesson in teamwork, responsibility, and the joy of giving back to the planet.

Every sapling planted carried a promise: shade, oxygen, and life for generations to come. Through Thuru, the volunteers embodied the philosophy that sustainability begins with small, deliberate actions, each one contributing to a larger impact. The project highlighted the deep connection between humans and nature, reminding everyone present that nurturing trees is also nurturing our own future.

The success of Thuru reflects not only the dedication of the volunteers but also the vision of the ZeroPlastic Colombo Community: to make a cleaner, greener Sri Lanka a reality. With each tree planted, the initiative strengthens a culture of environmental responsibility, showing that collective action—even in small numbers—can leave a lasting mark on the world.