A new architecture and design award has been introduced in Sri Lanka to recognize projects that prioritize ecological balance alongside human development. The Moonamal Award, launched by the Geoffrey Bawa Trust, aims to celebrate design that integrates nature’s needs with built environments, marking a shift from traditional architectural accolades that focus primarily on aesthetics or functionality.
The award draws inspiration from a lone indigenous Moonamal tree at Geoffrey Bawa’s Lunuganga estate. This medicinal tree, which was spared during the clearance of cinnamon cultivation in the 1960s, stands as a symbol of Bawa’s respect for nature. Its uniquely shaped flower also inspired the design of the trophy associated with the new accolade.
The Moonamal Award emerges from consultations involving key figures such as conservationist Sriyan de Silva Wijeyeratne, ecologist Soham Kacker, environmental architect Sunela Jayawardene, and architect Channa Daswatte, who chairs the Geoffrey Bawa and Lunuganga Trusts. The award seeks to encourage “Excellence in Design for Ecological Coexistence,” highlighting projects that place ecological concerns on par with human-centered development.
“This award challenges the conventional mindset of sacrificing nature for construction,” explained Daswatte. “It prompts consideration of all life supported by a tree or landscape, not just the human need for space.” Submissions can include restored landscapes, biodiversity-conscious infrastructure, public spaces harmonized with their surrounding ecosystems, or policy initiatives that guide environmentally responsible development.
Sri Lanka’s heritage of nature-sensitive design, from ancient sites such as Ritigala forest monastery to Kaludiya Pokuna rock pools, serves as a foundation for this new initiative. The award also hopes to engage with broader global concepts like “sponge cities” — urban areas designed to absorb and manage water runoff in ways that support ecological health — and wildlife corridors that maintain biodiversity alongside urban infrastructure.
The Moonamal Award accepts applications under two categories: the Built Environment, covering architecture, infrastructure, urban design, and landscape architecture; and Public Policy, recognizing legislative or administrative frameworks promoting sustainable design and construction. Open to individuals, organizations, community groups, public institutions, and multidisciplinary teams, eligible projects must have been implemented in Sri Lanka within the last decade and operational for at least one year to demonstrate long-term impact.
Entries will be evaluated based on four guiding principles: addressing the needs of plants, animals, and ecosystems along with human requirements; repairing environmental damage; enabling recovery of natural systems; and fostering collaboration among communities and professionals. These criteria respond to pressing ecological challenges such as habitat loss, erosion, pollution, and unsustainable resource use.
The award is organized in partnership with the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society, the Sri Lanka Institute of Landscape Architects, and the Institution of Engineers Sri Lanka. Applications opened on August 31, 2026, and will remain open until January 15, 2027, with submissions accepted in Sinhala, Tamil, and English. Winners, including one project and one public policy solution, will receive fellowships and opportunities for further learning, exchange, and public engagement. The shortlist and final recipients are expected to be announced by mid-2027.
Additional information and application details are available at www.geoffreybawa.com/moonamal-award, or via email at awards@geoffreybawa.org.