Anoka Primrose Abeyrathne lives in Sri Lanka and is 21 years old.

Anoka is interested in conserving the Mangrove habitats, bringing about sustainable livelihood development for the community of Bolgoda Lake.

Anoka has replanted more than 12,000 mangroves and is also promoting renewable energy and sustainable methods in harnessing nature. She is working to mitigate climate change through mangrove replantation and conservation and also in the promotion of solar powered LED fishing lamps. The solar-powered LED lamps were introduced to the fishermen at Bolgoda Lake to be used as an alternative for the traditional kerosene lamps used for night fishing. The new solar-powered lamp stops the release of more than 1836 metric tons of carbon dioxide per year. She was selected as a Global Changemaker 2011 and the Ashoka Foundation Youth Venturer 2011 for her impact on poverty alleviation through economic development.

Inspiration:
"I am inspired to act because I am passionately curious about protecting the environment while creating harmony between communities and the environment. But mostly, it is that burning urge to act and give back to nature and to motivate other young people in return to do their part in saving their planet.

My actions have inspired more young people to act, to take a stand and to be part of ongoing re-plantating programs, workshops and to use both social and digital media to protect the environment, one community at a time. Sri Lankan youth have created a Guinness world record acting as a team, we made Sri Lanka’s first environmental video voluntarily, and a mega walk was held on April first to bring attention to the national plan for Rio+20. This is us youth being inspired by my actions and fellow colleagues’ actions. We are a team of passionately active young people and we know we are making a change."

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