Sustainable livelihoods and the environment: A story from Matale district

Chandani Perera first realised the potential of bamboo-based products in 2003 when working on a bamboo plantation programme to minimise soil erosion.

Since then she has developed her idea of making bamboo products from the extra harvests as an alternative to polythene and plastic.

To date, she has successfully produced bamboo water bottles, lunch boxes, teacups, beer mugs, wedding cake boxes, and wall decorations.

Chandani has successfully trained 15 women in the craft who now work together with her.

These women have learned to operate the equipment which helps them to experiment with new designs and product prototypes.

Always looking to improve everyone's skills, Chandani works tirelessly alongside her employees continuously mentoring and encouraging them.

The women have a passion for their work and spend time brainstorming new ideas. Chandani remains closely involved in quality control and works on product improvements.

The business sells more than 1000 bamboo products each month. Chandani and her husband also hope to give back to the community by starting a bamboo plant nursery.