Business
Hayleys Aventura introduces Eco-One: newest weapon in plastic pollution battle
Hayleys Aventura has introduced Eco-One, an innovative product developed in the USA, to help manufacturers mitigate pollution caused by the disposal of plastics, polythene and rubber – one of Sri Lanka’s most pressing environmental challenges.
The organic additive, which is applied during the production process, enhances the biodegradation of plastic and polythene products. This drastically shortens the timespan such products are retained in landfills, from centuries to a few years. Once Eco-One incorporated polymer products are disposed in a microbial rich environment, the additive attracts microorganisms that consume it as a ‘food source’ along with the polymer product’s chemical elements converting it to inert humus (organic soil matter) and biogas energy.
“As a leader in providing innovative industrial solutions and technology, Hayleys Aventura remains committed to advancing the sustainability efforts of Sri Lankan manufacturers including those who seek to take our country to global export markets,” Hayleys Aventura (Pvt) Ltd Managing Director, Wasaba Jayasekera said. “As the engine of growth of our national economy, it’s important that the private sector plays an active role in mitigating pollution and Eco-One provides them with a viable solution to do so.”
Adding just 1% of Eco-One to the plastic compound improves the rate of degradation of the item to 18 months with complete degradation possible within approximately 3 years. This may however change depending on the physical and chemical composition of the product. Customers also have the option of achieving a faster degradation rate by increasing the dose.
The process and residual have been rigorously tested and are certified to have no adverse impact on the soil or the environment, an advantage over alternatives that leave behind fragments and micro-particles. In fact, the remnant nutrient-rich soil can even be used as fertiliser.
Moreover, the process has been supported by third-party studies conducted by local and global test bodies such as Bureau Veritas and Northeast Laboratories. Inc.
Eco-One can be conveniently applied without altering production lines, enabling low-cost integration into existing manufacturing processes. At the recommended level of application, the additive is a superior option for manufacturers and exporters looking to enter global markets, with a production cost impact of 10% – 15%, significantly below the cost of utilising biopolymers which also require special equipment and have limited supply.
Hayleys Aventura is the exclusive representative for Eco-One for SAARC countries, Indonesia and Myanmar. Several major Sri Lankan exporters to US and European markets are already utilising the additive, in producing their packaging.
Hayleys Aventura represents the Industrial Inputs and Energy Sector of Hayleys PLC. The company has established itself as the premier industrial solutions provider in Sri Lanka and consists of five diversified strategic business units. These are; Engineering Solutions, Medical & Analytical Solutions, Industrial Raw Materials and Renewable Energy.
Business
AHK Sri Lanka champions first-ever Sri Lankan delegation at Drupa 2024
The Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Sri Lanka (AHK Sri Lanka) proudly facilitated the first-ever Sri Lankan delegation’s participation at Drupa 2024, the world’s largest trade fair for the printing industry and technology. Held after an eight-year hiatus, Drupa 2024 was a landmark event, marking significant advancements and opportunities in the global printing industry.
AHK Sri Lanka played a pivotal role in organising and supporting the delegation, which comprised 17 members from the Sri Lanka Association for Printers (SLAP), representing eight companies from the commercial, newspaper, stationery printing, and packaging industries. This pioneering effort by AHK Sri Lanka not only showcased the diverse capabilities of Sri Lanka’s printing sector but also facilitated vital bilateral discussions with key stakeholders from the German printing industry.
Business
Unveiling Ayugiri: Browns Hotels & Resorts sets the stage for a new era in luxury Ayurveda Wellness
In a captivating reimagining of luxury wellness tourism, Browns Hotels & Resorts proudly unveiled the exquisite Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort Sigiriya. This momentous occasion, celebrated amidst a vibrant and serene grand opening on the 6th of June, heralds a new chapter in the Ayurveda wellness tourism landscape in Sri Lanka. Nestled amidst 54 acres of unspoiled natural splendour, Ayugiri features 22 exclusive suites and stands out as the only luxury Ayurveda wellness resort in the country offering plunge pools in every room, rendering it truly one-of-a-kind.
The grand opening of Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort was an enchanting event, where guests were captivated by the melodies of flutists and violinists resonating through Sigiriya’s lush landscapes. As traditional drummers and dancers infused the air with vibrant energy, Browns Hotels & Resorts’ CEO, Eksath Wijeratne, Kotaro Katsuki, Acting Ambassador for the Embassy of Japan and General Manager, Buwaneka Bandara, unveiled the resort’s new logo, marking a significant moment witnessed by distinguished guests from the French Embassy, Ayurveda and wellness enthusiasts along with officials from the Sigiriya area, LOLC Holdings and Browns Group.
“Our strategic expansion into wellness tourism with Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort Sigiriya symbolises a significant milestone for Browns Hotels & Resorts. Wellness tourism has consistently outperformed the overall tourism industry for over a decade, reflecting a growing global interest in travel that goes beyond leisure to offer rejuvenation and holistic well-being. By integrating the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda with modern luxury, we aim to set a new standard in luxury wellness tourism in Sri Lanka. Whether your goal is prevention, healing, or a deeper connection to inner harmony, Ayugiri offers a sanctuary for holistic well-being” stated Eksath Wijeratne.
Ayugiri encapsulates the essence of life, inspired by the lotus flower held by the graceful queens of the infamous Sigiriya frescoes. Just as the lotus emerges from the murky depths, untainted and serene,
Ayugiri invites guests on a journey of purity and rejuvenation, harmonised with a balance of mind, body and spirit, the essence of nature, echoes of culture and the wisdom of ancient Ayurvedic healing.
Business
HNB General Insurance recognized as Best General Bancassurance Provider in Sri Lanka 2024
HNB General Insurance, one of Sri Lanka’s leading general insurance providers, has been honored as the Best General Bancassurance Provider in Sri Lanka 2024 by the prestigious Global Banking and Finance Review – UK.
The esteemed accolade underscores HNB General Insurance’s unwavering commitment to excellence and its outstanding performance in the field of bancassurance. Through dedication and hard work, the HNB General Insurance team has continuously endeavored to deliver innovative insurance solutions, cultivate strong relationships with banking partners, and provide unparalleled service to customers nationwide. This recognition is a testament to the team’s dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence in the bancassurance business.
“We are honored to receive this prestigious award, which reflects our team’s tireless efforts and dedication to delivering value-added insurance solutions and exceptional service through our bancassurance partnerships,” said Sithumina Jayasundara, CEO of HNB General Insurance. “This recognition reaffirms our position as a trusted insurance provider in Sri Lanka and motivates us to continue striving for excellence in serving our customers and communities.”