Plant a tree and empower a woman

As part of its ongoing commitment to sustainability and women’s empowerment, the Zonta Club I of Colombo, Sri Lanka, has pledged to plant one tree for every 10 kilometers traveled by members during club activities. This initiative is the club’s commitment to reducing vehicle emissions and aligns with its participation in the Zonta Says NOW campaign.

Over the past 10 months, members collectively traveled more than 900 kilometers and, in line with their pledge, donated 900 guava saplings to support a livelihood initiative for 20 women in the rural village of Kandegama, Anuradhapura—an area near Kala Wewa known for facing agricultural challenges, including elephant crop raids.

The club’s initiative promotes environmental stewardship through practices such as carpooling and links climate-conscious action with economic support for women. Zontians joined the tree-planting effort, which was warmly received by the local community and followed by a shared meal prepared by the beneficiaries.

The club plans to continue this initiative, reinforcing its mission to empower women while promoting environmental responsibility through each mile traveled.