Zero Plastic Movement unveils ‘Hello Zero’, a life-sized elephant sculpture made entirely from plastic waste collected from Sigiriya

In a groundbreaking fusion of art, activism, and environmental awareness, Zero Plastic Movement has unveiled ‘Hello Zero’, a life-sized elephant sculpture made entirely from plastic waste collected from Sigiriya. The sculpture was officially launched at the annual summit of one of the world’s largest travel companies held at BMICH on February 27th, instantly capturing the attention of global tourism leaders, environmentalists, and local authorities.

‘Hello Zero’ is not just a sculpture — it’s a wake-up call about the devastating impact of plastic pollution on Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage sites and wildlife. The plastic used to craft this elephant was collected during massive clean-up drives in 2023 and 2024 by Zero Plastic Movement’s volunteers, a force of over 11,000 young environmentalists from state and private universities across the country.

The clean-ups specifically targeted the pathways and surrounding roads leading to Sigiriya, which have increasingly become polluted by plastic waste left behind by tourists. Each bottle, wrapper, and plastic bag collected represents the growing environmental footprint of tourism at this iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Mark and Comm, as its strategic communications partner, helps the movement to enhance and promote visibility, engagement and advocacy.

From Trash to Treasure — Art with Purpose

Zero Plastic partnered with renowned sculptor Lalith Senanayake to transform this collected waste into a masterpiece — a life-sized elephant, named ‘Hello Zero’. Elephants, often seen near Sigiriya, have become unfortunate victims of plastic pollution, accidentally ingesting plastic left behind by visitors. By choosing the elephant, Zero Plastic connects the dots between irresponsible tourism, plastic pollution, and the threat to Sri Lanka’s iconic wildlife.

Following its grand unveiling at the BMICH Summit, ‘Hello Zero’ has now been permanently displayed outside the BMICH, making it accessible to the public, students, tourists, and policymakers alike. It stands as a symbol of responsibility — reminding all who pass by to rethink their plastic use, particularly when visiting natural and cultural landmarks.

Zero Plastic Movement — Leading the Fight from the Ground Up

As Sri Lanka’s largest environmental movement, Zero Plastic has become a grassroots powerhouse when it comes to tackling the plastic crisis. With direct engagement at community level and hands-on expertise in waste management, education campaigns, and policy advocacy, the organization has become a trusted voice in the fight against plastic pollution.

The story of Sigiriya’s plastic problem is now a national conversation, thanks to the tireless efforts of these young volunteers. Through innovative solutions like Hello Zero, Zero Plastic proves that environmental activism can be both impactful and creative — blending art, culture, and conservation into a message the world cannot ignore.

As Hello Zero stands guard outside BMICH, its message is clear: Every piece of plastic you leave behind harms our heritage, our wildlife, and our future. And be a responsible traveler. Leave only footprints — not plastic. This is not just art; this is a sign to act — for Sigiriya, for elephants, for future generations.