Aitken Spence Travels Strengthens Leopard Conservation Efforts With Public Awareness Initiative

Himasha Dissanayake, JadeTimes Staff

H. Dissanayake is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Travel & Tourism

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Source: National Zoo & Aquarium

Aitken Spence Travels (Pvt) Ltd, Sri Lanka’s foremost Destination Management Company (DMC), has reinforced its commitment to sustainable tourism and wildlife protection through a major contribution to leopard conservation efforts. The company recently donated 22 specially designed pull-up banners to the Department of Wildlife Conservation to raise awareness about the island’s endangered apex predator, the Sri Lankan Leopard (Panthera pardus kotiya).

The banners, created to educate both local communities and tourists, support the identification of wild cats and highlight the urgent need to protect these iconic animals. This initiative marks a significant milestone under “Green Paws,” a collaborative conservation project between Aitken Spence Travels and the Department of Wildlife Conservation, and aligns with the company’s broader sustainability vision, “Pure Path,” which integrates responsible practices into its operations.

Focusing on reducing human-leopard conflict—especially in the Central Highlands—the campaign uses visually engaging educational material targeted for high-interaction public areas. These strategic awareness tools are designed to promote responsible behaviour, enhance visitor safety, and encourage a deeper appreciation of the leopard, a keystone species vital to Sri Lanka’s biodiversity.

Source: AST

Aitken Spence Travels has long been recognised for its leadership in sustainable tourism, evidenced by its prestigious Travelife certification and industry awards. Its efforts extend beyond wildlife protection to community empowerment, ensuring that tourism’s economic benefits support the preservation of Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural heritage.

The donation of the 22 awareness banners is a reminder that responsible tourism depends on collective action. By equipping stakeholders with knowledge to protect the vulnerable leopard population, Aitken Spence Travels continues to play a proactive and impactful role as both a business leader and an environmental steward dedicated to safeguarding Sri Lanka’s natural wonders for future generations.