Turning data into climate action at Thema Collection

In 2023, MDF partnered with Thema Collection to introduce carbon calculations across the hotel chain’s properties, supporting more data-driven business decisions. With MDF’s support, Thema became the first hotel chain in Sri Lanka to receive verified carbon certification from the National Cleaner Production Centre (NCPC). Thema Collection is a family-owned group of 14 boutique hotels and resorts across Sri Lanka.

Through its sustainable tourism work, MDF promotes approaches that help the industry respond to market volatility, shifting traveller preferences and climate challenges while strengthening long-term resilience. In this interview, MDF and Ashan Karunaratne, Thema’s General Manager for Sustainability and Business Development, reflect on how these changes influenced sustainability, profitability and business growth.