The ceremony took place under the distinguished patronage of Honourable Anura Kumara Dissanayake, President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka.
The Bank received the national recognition Silver Award in the category of Environmentally Friendly Private Institution, marking a defining milestone as its first-ever honour at the Presidential Environmental Awards.
Presented annually by the Central Environmental Authority, the awards celebrate individuals and organisations that demonstrate exceptional commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development.
Through this recognition, Sampath Bank’s continued efforts in integrating sustainability into its operations, promoting responsible banking, and supporting Sri Lanka’s national sustainability goals were acknowledged at a national level.
Commenting on this achievement, Mr. Sanjaya Gunawardena, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Sampath Bank PLC stated,
“This recognition is a reflection of our collective purpose to build a banking culture that respects people, resources, wildlife and the planet.
As a Bank that places sustainability at the heart of its business model, we are deeply honoured to be recognised by the Central Environmental Authority and the Government of Sri Lanka.
It inspires us to continue driving positive environmental change that benefits not only our customers but the nation at large.”
The Bank’s dedication to environmental responsibility assures customers that they are engaging with a trusted financial institution committed to ethical and sustainable practices.
This distinction reaffirms that every transaction, investment, and partnership through Sampath Bank contributes to the country’s broader sustainability journey, allowing customers to take pride in being part of a collective effort towards achieving the National and Sustainable Development Goals.
Sampath Bank remains steadfast in its commitment to environmental stewardship, continually evolving its practices to manage environmental risk responsibly while delivering financial security and long-term value for generations to come.
Photo Caption : Sanjaya Gunawardena, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Sampath Bank PLC, receives the Silver Award from Dr. Dammika Patabendi, Minister of Environment, as Sunil Handunneththi, Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, looks on. Also pictured are representatives of the Central Environmental Authority: Priyangani Gunathilake, Deputy Director General – Environmental Management Division (first from left), K. P. Welikannage, Deputy Director General – Environmental Protection Division (second from left), and Shyamani Periyapperuma, Deputy Director General – Waste Management Division (first from right).