DrivingSustainability.Inspiring Change.Leading theFuture.
With over a decade of experience in climate-responsible hospitality and eco-tourism, I bridge the gap between rigorous ecological research and actionable industry practice to build a greener future.
Where Research Meets Real-World Impact
I am an Environmental Sustainability Specialist with over a decade of professional experience in translating scientific research into practical, high-impact solutions for the hospitality and tourism industry. My work bridges the gap between academic insight and operational excellence, turning sustainability from a concept into measurable business value.
With a strong foundation in Environmental Management and advanced expertise in climate adaptation, biodiversity conservation, and resource efficiency, I design systems that go beyond compliance and work toward being truly regenerative.
As the founder of the Foundation of Responsible Operations for Green (FROG), I lead initiatives that bring nature-based thinking into the heart of corporate strategy.
Impact
Professional Highlights
What I Stand For
To lead a new era of sustainability in the hospitality industry, where innovation is inspired by nature, operations are guided by science, and growth is truly sustainable.
Academic Foundations & Lifelong Learning
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Sustainability Management
IIC University of Technology, Cambodia
Advanced research in sustainable development, ESG, climate resilience, environmental governance, and organizational sustainability.
Diploma in Spiritual Tourism
Bodhi Campus, Sri Lanka
Studies in spiritual and pilgrimage tourism, heritage interpretation, mindful travel experiences, and the cultural and community dimensions of faith-based destinations.
NEBOSH International General Certificate in Occupational Health & Safety
NEBOSH
Internationally recognized qualification covering risk assessment, hazard identification, workplace safety, and incident investigation.
Advanced Certificate in Sustainable Tourism Destination Management
University of Colombo
Specialized programme covering destination planning, community-based tourism, climate change adaptation, and GSTC principles.
Master of Environmental Management
University of Colombo
Strengthened expertise in environmental planning, sustainability policy, natural resource management, environmental governance, and sustainable development.
Diploma in Palaeo-Biodiversity
University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka
Studies in palaeontology and living fossils, tourism and palaeobiodiversity, and palaeobiodiversity and cultural evolution.
Postgraduate Diploma in Environmental Management (PGDEM)
University of Colombo
Comprehensive postgraduate programme covering environmental science, policy, economics, management, and legislation.
Diploma in Biodiversity Management
University of Colombo
Specialized studies in biodiversity conservation, ecosystem management, wildlife conservation, and sustainable natural resource management.
Professional Qualifications & Certifications
A continuous track record of certifications across ISO management systems, ESG, occupational health & safety, and sustainability.
ISO 14064 – Carbon Footprint Calculation & Reporting
RR Associates (Pvt) Ltd. · 2026
Quantification of GHG Emissions & Carbon Footprint (ISO 14064-1, 14064-2, 14064-3 & ISO 14067)
National Cleaner Production Centre Sri Lanka · 2015
ISO 20121 – Sustainable Event Management
Ceycert · 2026
Integrated ISO Management Systems (ISO 14001, ISO 45001, ISO 9001)
International Association for Chemical Safety · 2025
Integrated Solutions for a Sustainable Future
Each engagement is bespoke -designed around your sector, your stakeholders, and your strategic ambitions. No off-the-shelf templates.
Sustainability Certification Advisory
End-to-end guidance to achieve globally recognized certifications -from gap analysis and documentation to audit readiness.
Nature-Based Tourism Development
Designing eco-friendly tourism experiences that connect guests with nature while promoting conservation and community engagement.
ESG Training & Capacity Building
Customized training programs to build organizational capacity in ESG practices -practical, engaging, and internationally aligned.
Impact That Speaks for Itself
Foundation of Responsible Operation for Green
🐸 FROG · Founded 2025 · Colombo, Sri Lanka
Our Mission
FROG is an environmental initiative established in 2025 to support sustainability, biodiversity conservation, climate action, and community-based environmental programmes through strategic partnerships and sponsorships.
As the Founder and Chairman of FROG, Ishanda provides strategic direction and represents the organization in supporting impactful environmental initiatives, empowering youth-led environmental action across Sri Lanka.
Find My Work Across the Web
ResearchGate
Peer-reviewed papers and scientific publications on biodiversity, conservation, and sustainable tourism across Sri Lanka.
Google Scholar
Scholarly citations and academic works spanning environmental management, ecology, and sustainability science.
iNaturalist
Field observations of endemic amphibians, birds, and flora documented across Sri Lanka's ecosystems.
Professional journey, ESG thought leadership, and sustainability insights for the hospitality and tourism sector.
Experiences From the Field
“I went on an evening frog walk with Ishan, the resident naturalist, who is extremely knowledgeable. We found 6 endemic species in and around the nearby ponds. Hikes, nature walks and daily bird and frog spotting is available -the latter in the surrounding area which has been planted to encourage local wildlife.”
“We had a very stimulating evening tour with the resident Naturalist. We had the good fortune to see many birds including the Scimitar Babbler, Yellow Eared Bulbul, Dusky Blue Flycatcher and the Sri Lankan White Eye.”
“A little jewel is the Hotel Naturalist Ishan who you can book tours with. His knowledge enriches your discoveries in Horton Plains and the natural surroundings. Very worth booking a tour with him as he is a modest person and not talking all the time.”
Voluntary Work & Environmental Leadership
From young volunteer to President of the Young Zoologists' Association, my journey reflects a commitment to protecting nature through research, education, and community action.
My Conservation Journey
Since 2007, I have been actively involved in wildlife and environmental conservation with the Young Zoologists' Association of Sri Lanka. My journey evolved from passionate volunteering to serving as President in 2023, where I worked to strengthen environmental awareness, citizen science, and community-based conservation.
Conservation is not only about understanding nature – it is about taking responsibility for protecting it.
President of YZA
2023
Young Zoologists' Association of Sri Lanka
Citizen Science
Ongoing
Supporting research symposia & citizen scientists
Field Ornithology
Active
FOGSL member, avian conservation & observation
Conservation Education
2007-Present
Inspiring next generation through nature programs
Organizations & Affiliations
Biodiversity Protection
Citizen Science
Environmental Education
Conservation Advocacy
Ready to Build a Greener Future Together?
Whether you need a full ESG transformation or a targeted advisory engagement, I’d love to understand your challenge and explore how we can create meaningful impact together.