Our Mission

With the climate and ecological crisis deepening due to insufficient action over the last few decades, Girawa was founded to foster understanding that the survival of humanity is directly dependent on nature. We take inspiration from the symbiotic relationships that exist in nature, and indigenous ways of life that traditionally practice respect for nature.

Girawa is a volunteer-led project building an open-access educational resource that puts nature at the heart of STEM education. With a focus on planetary health, we cover topics such as nutrition, infectious diseases, ecology and engineering.

Our mission is to fill the gaps in the educational curriculum and offer an alternative perspective to build better societies that embrace rather than destroy nature. We hope to disseminate resources to as many countries as possible, regardless or how developed they are, as solving our planet’s problems requires all countries to take responsibility and act in a unified manner.

Our Role

Girawa is proud to be a member of the Planetary Health Alliance (PHA), a global network of over 500 organizations working to understand and respond to the links between human health and the health of the planet. As part of this growing community, we support efforts to raise awareness, share knowledge, and drive action that protects both people and nature. The PHA focuses on building strong global connections, supporting the next generation through education and mentorship, and making planetary health a priority in public conversations and policy decisions.

Building Community

Here at Girawa, we connect with scientists, educators, activists, and policymakers across regions and disciplines to share knowledge and ideas.

Improved Learning Systems

We support open-access learning tools and mentorship programs that help students and young professionals engage with planetary health.

Driving Action

We spare no effort to share research and practical solutions with the public and leaders to drive meaningful environmental and health policies.

What we hope to achieve

Our Aims and Objectives

Here at Girawa, we would rather build societies that embrace nature rather than destroy it.

Accessible Education

Make nature, planetary health, and STEM resources available to all, regardless of background or location.

Locally-Led Solutions

Equip marginalized groups with the knowledge and skills to address climate and social challenges in their communities.

Fair and Inclusive Learning

Promote diverse perspectives and unity across nations to solve global environmental issues together.

Education Reform

Integrate nature and planetary health into school and university subjects across disciplines.

Learning from the Past

Learn from traditional practices that promote living in balance with nature and sustaining quality of life.

Inspiring Young People

Encourage young people to dream and pursue careers focused on solving environmental and social problems.

Our Identity

“Girawa” (ගිරවා) means “Parrot” in Sinhala, the main language of Sri Lanka. The logo features the Sri Lankan Hanging Parrot, a species found only on the island and known for its habit of hanging upside down. Its preferred Sinhala name is Giramaliththa (ගිරාමලිත්තා). These parrots feed on wild fruits like Mangifera zeylanica, helping to spread seeds, and on flowers like Erythrina variegata and Katuru Murunga, aiding pollination. With a special tongue for nectar and fruit juice, they are also called “Pol Girawa” (Coconut Parrot) and “Tel-diya Maliththa” due to their fondness for toddy from coconut and Kithul trees.

This parrot reflects key aspects of Girawa’s identity, values, and purpose:

Connection to Nature

The parrot is deeply tied to its ecosystem—spreading seeds, pollinating flowers, and relying on native trees. Girawa also promotes living in balance with nature and helping communities protect the natural systems they depend on.

Knowledge Sharing and Adaptability

The parrot adapts to what’s available—nectar, fruits, and toddy—using its resources wisely. Girawa shares knowledge and practical skills, especially with underrepresented groups, to help them adapt and lead in facing climate and social challenges.

Symbol for Global Work

Though it lives only in Sri Lanka, the parrot’s role supports big planetary health ideas. Girawa is locally rooted but globally focused—connecting people, knowledge, and action across borders.

Join the Movement

Join the movement for a healthier planet and communities. At Girawa, we link learning, action, and teamwork to support planetary health.

Become a part of something bigger today!