Hotels (Commonwealth Union) _ The Mount Lavinia Hotel, a well-known establishment in Sri Lanka, made headlines with the introduction of the “MLH Plant-Earth Market,” the country’s inaugural Vegan Market. This market will be held monthly on Poya days at The Terrace, coinciding with the Hotel’s Vegan Buffet and Vegan High Tea.
Attendees at the “MLH Plant-Earth Market” were treated to a diverse array of vegan products, all of which were “Good Market Approved.” From vegan clothing to jewelry, musical instruments at the Drum House, arts and crafts, and household items, visitors had access to an impressive selection of goods. Concurrently, the Hotel hosted the Vegan Lunch Buffet and Vegan High Tea. The market operated from 10 AM to 4 PM, allowing ample time for attendees to explore and enjoy the vegan offerings.
More than just a market, this platform served as a celebration of the vegan lifestyle and a means for like-minded individuals to connect. The Mount Lavinia Hotel is committed to supporting veganism and local vendors of vegan products, acknowledging the significance of this movement and its positive impact on individuals and the environment.
The “MLH Plant-Earth Market” attracted not only locals from Mount Lavinia but also garnered attention from foreigners, underscoring the growing interest and awareness surrounding veganism. Moreover, the market represents just the beginning, as the Hotel plans to educate the local community and promote a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.
The concept of “Green Going Green” was initially implemented at Mount Lavinia Hotel in 2010 during Mr. Anura Dewapura’s tenure as General Manager. With his strong advocacy for environmental sustainability, it is fitting that he has reintroduced these initiatives upon his return as the Chief Operating Officer of the MLH Group. Recognizing the Hotel’s efforts, MLH received Bronze and Silver certifications for the EarthCheck Awards in 2010 and 2011 respectively. Building on these achievements, Mr. Dewapura aims to reintroduce and refine existing sustainable strategies to align with evolving global standards. He firmly believes that it is the responsibility of each individual to adopt a planet-saving approach for a more promising future.
One noteworthy initiative being reintroduced by Mount Lavinia Hotel is the concept of “Slow Food.” Previously embraced by the Hotel, this movement actively promoted and recognized local farmers, garnering significant support from the corporate community in Colombo. Now, the Hotel has announced the return of slow food, with the first slow food event for the year scheduled for February 2, 2024 – Slow Food Italia with Chef Riccardo.
The launch of the “MLH Plant-Earth Market” signifies a significant milestone for vegan enthusiasts in Sri Lanka. Mount Lavinia Hotel is reclaiming its position as a pioneer in green practices. Through initiatives such as the Vegan Market, slow food, and partnerships with local communities, Mount Lavinia Hotel is leading by example and setting a new standard for the industry. As the Hotel continues to evolve and adapt to the ever-changing world, its commitment to a greener future remains steadfast, promising a more sustainable and responsible tourism experience for its guests.
