On 28 and 31 May 2026 volunteers from ZeroPlastic Club, University of Ruhuna carried out a targeted Vesak cleanup at Midellawala Purana Maha Viharaya, Thihagoda, Matara, preparing the temple and nearby public spaces for the influx of devotees and helping keep the area free of plastic pollution.

The two day effort was organised as part of the National Vesak celebrations in Matara and focused on roadsides, temple premises and surrounding public areas. Volunteers collected litter, encouraged responsible waste disposal and reinforced practical habits to reduce plastic waste during the peak festival period.

Leadership for the project came from Dilshani Chathurika as Project Head, with Sadaruwan Nadeesha as Deputy Head and S.M. Hiruni Bhagya as Secretary. The organising committee comprised 29 members covering roles from public relations and events to finance, photography and design. Strong volunteer participation and local community support helped complete all planned activities.

The campaign made a meaningful contribution to maintaining the cleanliness of the Vesak celebration area while promoting the ZeroPlastic concept.

The campaign emphasised practical environmental responsibility and community stewardship. By reducing visible litter and promoting proper disposal, the activity supports SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and SDG 14: Life Below Water, by lowering the risk of plastic entering waterways and coastal environments.

Organisers reported that the cleanups not only improved the visitor experience during Vesak but also served as a public reminder of the role young people play in protecting shared spaces. The ZeroPlastic Club used the campaign to model sustainable behaviour and encourage ongoing community action beyond the festival dates.