GREEN PRACTICES IN TALAWAKELLE TEA ESTATE PLC THAT LEAD THEM TO ACHIEVE ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY

Abstract

. Introduction Thalawakelle Tea Estates PLC is an emerging leader in the Sri Lankan tea industry by being environmentally sustainable and utilizing green practices. This study examines how Talawakelle Tea Estates PLC implemented green practices to successfully achieve environmental sustainability and the actions taken toward addressing the barriers associated with these practices. 2. Research Methodology The study is based on an interpretivist philosophy and thus follows a qualitative, inductive approach. In this regard, a single case study strategy has been implemented that includes semi-structured interviews conducted among sustainability managers, sustainability executives, and estate managers. The data were thematically analyzed, and all ethical considerations were made to ensure both credibility and trustworthiness. Purposive sampling allowed for the selection of well-informed participants, thus allowing precise insights into the objectives set by the study. 3. Findings and Discussion The results showed that Talawakelle Tea Estates PLC was involved with different green practices, such as water conservation, soil fertility management, energy management, waste management, carbon emission management, and biodiversity conservation. Sustainability initiatives and practices, financial coordination, research, and continuous improvement were vital in overcoming the challenges of implementing these green practices. The study also noted innovative practices such as the use of the Buyback Weed System, which had a great effect on environmental sustainability in the company. 4. Conclusion and Implications This study is a relevant contribution to the literature on green practices by highlighting the successful green practices that are needed to become a pioneer in environmental sustainability in the tea industry, and the ways to overcome barriers that arise when implementing those green practices. Theoretically, it aids sustainability managers and policymakers in planning and enhancing green practices in agricultural settings, emphasizing continuous improvement and coordination for long-term environmental sustainability goals