Greenpeace launched its South Asia regional office in Colombo with the arrival of the ship Rainbow Warrior, marking the beginning of the ‘People For Climate – Greenpeace Indian Ocean Ship Tour 2024’. The opening ceremony, which was held onboard the Rainbow Warrior, set the stage for an inspiring journey focused on collective action demanding accountability and resilience in the South Asian region.
The welcome ceremony was a celebration of unity and collaboration, featuring a captivating cultural performance that showcased the rich heritage of Sri Lanka. The ceremony was graced by key guests, including influencers, youth groups, authorities, celebrities and allies who joined Greenpeace in its mission to tackle climate change.
Environmentalist and Greenpeace South Asia board member Jehan Canaga Retna said, “Here in Sri Lanka, we’re experiencing an environmental crisis, with climate change disrupting our agriculture and livelihoods. Despite our minimal role in contributing to climate change, as a biodiversity hotspot in Southern Asia, we’re disproportionately impacted. It’s imperative for us, alongside Greenpeace South Asia and other local environmental movements, to advocate for a dedicated climate change foundation in Sri Lanka.”
Participants engaged in discussions emphasizing the urgent need for regional collaboration to address pressing environmental issues impacting the marginalised sections of the populations. The session sparked hope and determination among attendees, igniting a collective passion for environmental action.
Executive Director, Greenpeace South Asia/India Binu Jacob said, “Over a billion and a half people live in the South Asian region comprising eight countries which are home to some of the most ecologically sensitive regions in the world. Data shows that the region has the second largest share of the global poor. The multidimensional poverty, dependency on natural resources and weather patterns are just some of the reasons that makes the population of this region particularly vulnerable to the instability that comes with the climate crisis.
According to a World Bank report over 800 million South Asians are living in future climate change hotspots, meaning these regions can get increasingly unliveable.”
The ceremony featured a mesmerising performance by an artist, captivating the audience with their powerful message on environmental advocacy. Attendees also had the opportunity to explore a compelling photo exhibition showcasing the life of coastal communities and the climate impacts in the region, highlighting the importance of environmental conservation.
The Rainbow Warrior’s decks were transformed into interactive spaces, with a VR and entertainment zone providing immersive experiences for visitors of all ages. A dedicated children’s zone offered engaging activities, inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards.
