AkzoNobel, a leading global enterprise in the paints and coatings sector and the producer of Dulux Paints in Sri Lanka, has successfully completed the restoration and maintenance of the historic Galle Lighthouse. This project contributes to the preservation of one of the nation’s most cherished heritage sites.
Located within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Galle Fort, the Galle Lighthouse is recognized as the oldest light station in Sri Lanka. It serves as a prominent symbol not only within the Fort but also throughout the entire island. Built in the mid-1800s, this iconic structure attracts both local and international visitors.
Upendra Gunawardhana, the Head of Marketing at AkzoNobel Sri Lanka, expressed pride in the company’s role in conservation efforts, stating, “Sri Lanka boasts a rich and vibrant history, and we are honored to contribute to the maintenance and preservation of such significant landmarks for future generations. This project was particularly special as AkzoNobel is well-equipped to provide innovative restoration solutions that maintain the historical integrity of the site while also protecting it from the challenges posed by Sri Lanka’s coastal climate, which necessitates specialized product application, ongoing maintenance, and structural care.”
In collaboration with the Galle Heritage Foundation, the Department of Archaeology in Galle, and other local authorities, AkzoNobel undertook a comprehensive color wash and protective coating application to safeguard the lighthouse from the harsh coastal conditions. The Galle Lighthouse faces intense sunlight, heavy rains, and saline air, requiring products that offer superior durability and weather resistance for long-term protection against extreme environmental factors. The restoration team focused on eradicating fungi and contaminants and applied waterproofing solutions to enhance the lighthouse’s resilience against the elements.
The project employed a selection of high-performance products from the Dulux range, including Dulux Fungicidal Wash, Dulux Interior & Exterior Sealer, Dulux AquaTech Max Waterproofing, and Dulux Weathershield Powerflexx.
This restoration effort is part of AkzoNobel Sri Lanka’s extensive Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program, which emphasizes community involvement and the sustainable conservation of the country’s cultural heritage.
