The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Sri Lanka in collaboration with the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE), Ceylon Chamber of Commerce (CCC), United Nations Global Compact Network Sri Lanka (CNSL) and the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), recently hosted a two-day workshop as part of the Sustainable Finance Week for the Private Sector in Colombo.
This event was designed to address the urgent need to integrate sustainability into the strategic framework of businesses in Sri Lanka.
UNDP in Sri Lanka Resident Representative Azusa Kubota stated; “This workshop is about reimagining our economies where economic prosperity aligns seamlessly with sustainability. As the business environment evolves under the influence of climate change, resource limitations, and shifting societal values, integrating sustainability into business strategy is no longer optional—it is imperative.”
Colombo Stock Exchange Senior Vice President Commercial Punyamali Saparamadu said; “As we explore the commercialization of green bonds, we have identified a significant interest among companies. Yet many lack clarity on the execution pathway. This highlights the urgent need for capacity building in the area. It is increasingly clear that companies with strong ESG frameworks not only bolster their reputation, but also effectively mitigate risks and lower their cost of capital in the long run.”
During the two-day workshop, experts from the organising committee led a series of interactive discussions designed to enhance the capacity of the private sector in understanding and implementing sustainable practices.
United Nations Global Compact Network Sri Lanka Executive Director Rathika de Silva said; “Sustainability is not a buzzword—it’s a business imperative. We find ourselves at a critical juncture in our economy, where an infusion of funds is urgently needed. Currently, we have only achieved 15% of the SDGs, leaving us with 85% still to accomplish. With just 6 or 7 years remaining, the urgency to act has never been greater.”
Additionally, the event covered sustainable financing options such as green bonds, corporate bond issuance, and sustainability disclosures.
Senior Economist Sanjaya Ariywansa speaking on behalf of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce noted, “Sri Lanka has immense potential for sustainable growth and development. However, the path to realising this potential has many challenges. The private sector as the engine of economic growth holds the key to unlocking this potential. We must empower businesses to measure and manage their environmental and social impact while simultaneously accessing the growing pool of sustainable finance.”
The Sustainable Finance Week concluded with a call for continued collaboration and partnership among the private sector, UN agencies, the UN Global Compact and financial institutions.
