Earth Day occurs every year on the 22nd of April. It started on April 22nd 1970 and since then it has become not a day, but a movement, mobilizing over 1 billion people annually united in the protection of our planet. It is one of the biggest environmental protest movements to this day and we at Dilmah fully resonate with it.

Earth Day 2024: Planet vs. Plastics

This year, the theme of Earth Day is 'Planet vs. Plastics', in an effort to stress the need to reduce the production of plastics by 60% by 2040. In fact, plastic production is a big issue, now found in most products as it is intensively used for single-use products while being a non biodegradable pollutant. Additionally, this year's theme emphasizes the need to raise broad awareness about the pollution of plastic production, the harm of single-use plastic products, the health dangers of plastics, and urgently promotes a strong UN Treaty on Plastic Pollution, with a call for an end to fast fashion.

sunrise at Dunkeld tea estate with tea leaves

In general, as stated by the UN Environment Program, it is time to change the way we produce, consume, and dispose of the plastic we use.

How to raise awareness of the climate crisis?

As responsible, eco-friendly individuals, it may be difficult to not feel powerless and defeated when faced with the reality of how bad the environmental and climatic situation is. However, on days like this, it is important to realize that we are not alone, and there is an ever growing number of like-minded people who are willing to unite in the fight for our planet.

For us, Earth Day offers an opportunity to discuss spreading environmental awareness over a cup of tea. However, there are so many different ways to participate in Earth Day. You could plant some trees or herbs in your garden, pick up some litter, or come up with any other small project that resonates with this day, and invite as many people as possible to join you. It is also possible to join ecological initiatives organized by different communities, or show up to street protests demanding stronger regulations to protect our environment and help mitigate climate change.

man taking care of the tea plant nursery showing some plants to the photographer

Helping the Planet with Every Cup

When you choose our tea, you’re also supporting significant contributions to environmental and community welfare that us at Dilmah, with the MJF Foundation and Dilmah Conservation too, carry on.

For example, you’re contributing to the continuation of our important climate research in Sri Lanka. Dilmah Conservation set up Sri Lanka's first Climate Change Research Station at Dilmah's Queensbury Estate in Nawalapitiya. The station was established to boost the limited research on climate change in Sri Lanka and help develop ways to adapt and respond to it. This effort is crucial as the island faces the growing challenges of climate change, from threatening food security to impacting the environment. With every cup, you’re contributing to a better understanding of how we can protect our planet.

But this is not all, here are some other relevant initiatives:

Biodiversity Conservation

Through Dilmah Conservation, we are actively involved in protecting biodiversity. Dilmah Conservation is an initiative by Dilmah Tea to promote environmental sustainability and conservation efforts. The activities encompass habitat restoration, biodiversity protection, sustainable agriculture practices, community engagement and education programs.

plants to give out to the community, from the plant nursery by Dilmah Conservation These initiatives are designed to support the environment while also fostering respect and care for nature among communities and tea consumers. The projects, such as the Elephant Transit Home or the Nature Walk, address the challenges posed by biodiversity loss and climate change.

Environmental and Social Empowerment Initiatives

The MJF Centre for Dignified Empowerment and Sustainable Development focuses on holistic community support including healthcare, education, and sustainable agriculture. The MJF facilities integrate climate resilience efforts, like showcasing climate-smart agricultural methods, into its community support programs.

In fact, we are very committed to developing climate-smart solutions. Especially at the MJF Centre in the East, we work with local communities to enhance their ability to adapt to climate change, incorporating advanced agricultural techniques and supporting sustainable livelihoods through education and skill development.

Environmental Advocacy

Nevertheless, at Dilmah, we strive to set the bar higher for the whole industry in terms of sustainability, and through Dilmah Conservation we encourage corporate and community involvement in sustainability initiatives. This includes promoting environmentally friendly practices and advocating for the conservation of natural resources. As a flagship of our commitment, Dilmah is part of the Climate Emergency Taskforce of the UNGC in Sri Lanka. In 2021, Dilmah committed to the UNGC Science Based Targets initiative, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions based on climate science.

Plastic-free Organic Ceylon Tea

In case you feel like joining us in sipping a good cup of tea while contributing to environmental advocacy, we’ve got you served. With our Dilmah True Organics line, you can savor the taste of ethical and freshly picked organic Ceylon tea, delivered to you in a eco-designed, plastic-free packaging. Additionally, you can rest assured that we are always working towards a more and more sustainable packaging for all our products.

So, what are you waiting for? Have a cup of kindness, and join us in advocating for our planet this Earth Day 2024.