At Aarunya, we embody the principles of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainability as integral parts of our corporate ethos. We hold a deep respect for the communities where we operate, whether local, regional, national, or global, and strive to make positive contributions to their well-being.
Our commitment to CSR, and sustainability/green initiatives is unwavering. We operate with the understanding that our actions have far-reaching impacts, and we actively seek opportunities to create meaningful change. We prioritize initiatives that not only benefit society but also foster environmental stewardship and economic empowerment.
We aim to become the first fully Biodynamic property in Sri Lanka. Biodynamic farming is a holistic, organic method that treats the farm as a living organism. Our consultants have developed a comprehensive biodynamic program at Aarunya to enhance soil health, productivity and biodiversity.
Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Sri Lanka energy/economic crisis, Aarunya has consistently provided secure, uninterrupted services, developing sustainable resource management in water, power, and food supply.
We are currently reusing bottles for garden lights. We also plan to collaborate with local artists and children from the nearby village to transform our waste materials into beautiful artworks on-site, promoting creativity and sustainability.
We use electric buggies for internal guest and staff transport needs, promoting energy-efficient and eco-friendly mobility throughout the property. The buggies will be charged by Solar Electricity.
We source all water (except potable water) from wells on the property, treating it on-site using an advanced water treatment plant.
We are transitioning to an off-the-grid energy model using solar arrays, battery storage, hot water, and biogas for cooking.
Solar panels are being installed across the property to reduce dependence on the grid and minimize generator diesel usage.
We are retrofitting our existing bicycles to transform them into e-cycles, powered by solar electricity, to promote sustainable transportation and reduce carbon emissions.
Our on-site waste sorting, disposal, composting and recycling programs ensure minimal waste generation and promote sustainable practices across the property.
A strict “No Single-Use Plastic” policy is in place at Aarunya to reduce our environmental footprint and promote eco-friendly alternatives.
All black and grey wastewater is treated and disposed of on-site using natural processes, ensuring minimal environmental impact and sustainability.
With a greenhouse, organic vegetable patches, rice/paddy fields, coconut trees, and spice/tea gardens, we cultivate our own fresh, organic produce for use in our kitchens, ensuring garden-to-table dining.
We prioritize sourcing from local suppliers to reduce food miles and support local entrepreneurs, such as providing fresh milk from local village farmers for our staff daily.
We ensure that our meats, seafood, crustaceans, and produce are organic and ethically sourced, maintaining high standards for sustainability and responsible sourcing.
We are an equal opportunity employer with anti-discrimination policies. Our Staff Welfare Fund supports staff and families, and we are committed to staff training, development, and retention.
Aarunya was built with the help of local craftsmen/builders and suppliers, and our ongoing development projects continue to follow sustainable practices, including the preservation of trees and local environments.
Our in-house Naturalist and Naturalist-Butlers guide you on a nature walk through our ten acre property, exploring the tea estate, spice gardens, rice field, and new paths for ‘Forest Bathing,’ enhancing your physical and mental well-being.
The Aarunya Nature Foundation focuses on empowering local villagers, particularly underprivileged children, and supporting environmental conservation efforts.
Empowering Communities, Developing Youth, Protecting Nature
We support underprivileged children by providing annual school packs including shoes, notebooks, stationery, and bags.
We provide books for the local school libraries and the Aarunya Resort Library to encourage learning.
We sponsor regular village clean-ups and beautification projects, collaborating with local villagers and community leaders.
We help found and funded IT equipment for the local village’s children’s IT class at the local village Buddhist temple (The temple is traditionally the heart of village life and social projects/programs are often held there).
We provided food and ration packs to 7 nearby villages during the COVID-19 lockdown, supporting locals who couldn’t earn a living (As most villagers live off their daily work wages).
Dr. M.A.P.K. Seneviratne is a seasoned professional in agricultural extension and rural development, with a rich academic background and extensive experience in both academia and the public sector. With a Ph.D. in Agricultural Extension, he has contributed significantly to research and is considered a leading authority in his field. Dr. Seneviratne has held leadership roles, including Director General at Ceylon Green Ayurveda Manufacturing and Mudiyannegama Agro Ltd. He has led numerous initiatives aimed at improving agricultural value chains, including consultancy work for the Market Development Facility and the World Bank. His international experience includes serving as the country liaison officer to the International Pepper Community in Indonesia and as the Country Chairman for the CODEX committee on culinary herbs and spices. Dr. Seneviratne’s commitment to knowledge dissemination is evident through his role as a visiting lecturer and his involvement in several professional societies and committees, cementing his reputation as an expert in agricultural development and research.
Dr. P.S.B. Wanduragala is a distinguished academic and professional with significant experience in environmental and agricultural research, education, and project management. He has made key contributions to plant neurobiology and environmental science, holding important roles like Secretary to the Board of Governors at the National Institute of Fundamental Studies in Kandy, Sri Lanka, and Senior Project Manager at the Wayamba Development Authority. He also served as an Assistant Lecturer and Demonstrator at the Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, University of Peradeniya. Dr. Wanduragala’s research interests include the effects of electromagnetic potential gradients on plant growth and the development of eco-friendly bio-fertilizers. He has published extensively and earned prestigious accolades such as the international Green Apple Award for his work in sustainable agriculture. Actively involved in teaching and organizing seminars on organic farming and eco-tourism, he has contributed significantly to establishing tissue culture laboratories and promoting post-harvest technologies. His work is a testament to his dedication to sustainable development and environmental conservation.
Dr. Lal Rankothge is an accomplished environmental management professional with over 25 years of experience in sustainability, environmental protection, and commercial agriculture across the Asia-Pacific region. As the Managing Director of Aarunya Nature Resort & Spa, Dr. Rankothge combines his passion for environmental conservation with the development and management of a sustainable hospitality venture. His diverse career includes roles as a Freelance Lead Technical Consultant specializing in Environmental and Social Management Systems (ESMS), ISO14000 certification, and environmental auditing. Dr. Rankothge has contributed to international projects as a Senior Consultant/Team Leader in ESMS at the International Institute of Development Training and EML Consultants in Sri Lanka, as well as a Consultant for the World Environment Program in Africa. His previous position as Senior Professional at the Department of Environment, Climate Change & Water in NSW, Australia, showcases his dedication to environmental governance. His multifaceted career highlights his commitment to advancing global sustainability efforts.
Mr. Nath Rankothge is an Australian Registered Architect and Property Developer with a distinguished career in architectural design and property development. As the founder of Nath Rankothge & Associates (NRA), an international property development and architectural design firm, he leads visionary projects that emphasize innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility. Nath has worked with leading architectural firms such as SOM (New York), UNStudio (Shanghai), Aukette Swanke (London), and Balmond Studio (Colombo/London), where he honed his expertise in delivering cutting-edge architectural solutions on a global scale. Nath’s current role as Architect and Property Developer for Aarunya showcases his ability to integrate sustainability with aesthetic excellence in hospitality projects. Through NRA and Aarunya, Nath is committed to creating environmentally sensitive and socially impactful designs. His work exemplifies his dedication to advancing the built environment while meeting the challenges of modern development in harmony with nature.
Dr. Mallika Rankothge, with a PhD in Chemistry from UNSW, is an experienced leader and Directress of multiple companies in Sri Lanka and Sydney, Australia. As a Non-Executive Director at Aarunya Nature Resort & Spa, she plays a key role in shaping the resort’s strategic direction and sustainability initiatives.
Dr. Rankothge is integral to the vision for Aarunya’s plantation, gardening, and landscaping efforts, ensuring that the resort’s environment thrives with eco-friendly practices. Her expertise also extends to roles as Director of Sarees n Things in Sydney and Independent Associate with Usana Health Sciences. Additionally, she is a Director of the Vidusetha Higher Education Foundation in Sri Lanka, where she supports the advancement of education.
With a strong commitment to sustainability, community development, and empowering local populations, Dr. Rankothge contributes significantly to Aarunya’s CSR goals and its positive environmental and social impact.
Vijaya Anand is a Biodiversity Conservationist & Ecological Habitat Specialist who brings over 15 years of expertise in biodiversity conservation, ecological habitat management, and naturalist work. With a Diploma in Biodiversity Management from the University of Colombo and advanced training from the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust (UK), Vijaya has contributed to numerous biodiversity assessments and ecological initiatives across Sri Lanka.
His roles with Rainforest Rescue International, Nagenahiru Environmental Learning Centre, and other esteemed organizations highlight his dedication to habitat restoration and conservation. As an active member of the IUCN Crocodile Specialist Group and The Young Zoologists’ Association, Vijaya’s passion for preserving Sri Lanka’s natural heritage aligns with Aarunya’s commitment to sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship.