Protecting Our Shores, One Step at a Time

Small actions create big impacts, whether for better or worse. Marine pollution has become a growing crisis, and ironically, it’s often the little things people do that contribute to it. A single piece of trash tossed onto the shore may seem insignificant, but over time, it accumulates into an environmental disaster. Plastics, chemicals, and other pollutants pose serious threats to marine ecosystems, affecting not just the ocean’s beauty but the countless species that depend on it for survival.

The ocean, covering more than 70% of our planet, is not just a vast expanse of water. It’s a vital force that sustains life on Earth. It produces over 50% of the planet’s oxygen and acts as a massive carbon sink, absorbing large amounts of carbon dioxide. Marine ecosystems such as seagrasses and mangroves can sequester carbon up to four times more efficiently than terrestrial forests. Protecting these habitats is not just about preserving scenic coastlines; it’s about safeguarding a crucial element of our planet’s well-being.

Pollution in our oceans comes in many forms, plastic waste, metal cans, glass, and even microplastics that break down from larger debris. Anything that doesn’t belong in the ocean is a pollutant that disrupts marine life.

At Thema Collection, we are deeply committed to conservation and sustainability, ensuring that future generations can experience the natural beauty we cherish today. Our coastal properties, Maalu Maalu Resort & Spa, Ayurvie Weligama, Vis Ta Vie Mirissa, and Parangi Bay Weligama actively support marine conservation through various initiatives. Among these efforts, Maalu Maalu Resort & Spa regularly conducts beach cleanups to help maintain the pristine shores of Pasikuda.

In a recent cleanup effort, our team dedicated two and a half hours to clearing the shoreline, removing an astonishing 110 kg of waste. The collected debris included PET bottles, polythene, glass, rubber, rigifoam, and metal cans. While much of the pollution was locally generated, we also discovered transboundary waste, trash that had drifted in from multiple countries, underscoring the global nature of marine pollution.

This initiative is part of Maalu Maalu Resort’s ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability and the preservation of Sri Lanka’s coastal ecosystems. Every cleanup is a step towards a cleaner, healthier ocean, reminding us that small efforts, when consistent, can create lasting change.