Protect the planet, CEJ urges public on earth day

Colombo, April 21 (Daily Mirror) - On the occasion of International Earth Day, the Centre for Environmental Justice (CEJ) has called on the public to reaffirm their commitment to environmental justice, biodiversity protection and climate resilience, stressing that safeguarding the planet is the responsibility of every citizen.

“The Earth is the only home we have inherited, and protecting it is the responsibility of everyone,” the organisation said, urging a shift towards sustainable living.

This year’s Earth Day theme, “Our Power, Our Planet,” highlights the role of collective action in protecting natural resources and combating environmental degradation. Earth Day was recognised by the United Nations General Assembly in 2009, following a proposal by Bolivia, and is observed annually on April 22. The day is also referred to as “Mother Earth Day,” highlighting the interdependence between humans, other species, and the planet.

CEJ Executive Director Dilena Pathragoda said that Sri Lanka is highly vulnerable to climate change, with communities increasingly affected by droughts, floods and landslides. He warned that agriculture and water resources are already under severe stress, adding that greater attention must be paid to protecting water sources and catchment areas to prevent long-term damage.

The Centre for Environmental Justice, which has been active for over two decades, has led legal action, awareness programmes and policy discussions on issues including polythene pollution, deforestation, human–elephant conflict, coastal erosion and toxic chemical contamination. Following legal proceedings initiated by the organisation, the government implemented a ban on the free distribution of polythene bags at supermarkets from November 1, 2025, contributing to an estimated 50% reduction in polythene use.

CEJ highlighted that meaningful environmental protection requires urgent changes in everyday lifestyles. “Only through collective small actions can we create a big impact,” the organisation said, calling on the public to ensure that Earth Day becomes not just a commemoration, but the beginning of lasting behavioural change.