Doing Organic Agriculture Right  

A sociologist, Nisansala Rathnage’s investigations into the disastrous agrochemical ban in 2021 birthed a movement for organic alternatives that is gaining momentum with buy-in from agri corporations and smallholder farmers.

Nisansala is a passionate advocate for sustainable agriculture, fighting to change the laws that prevent domestic manufacturers from producing organic fertilizers and pest control products. As the owner of Pure Spheres Private Limited, Nisansala has carved a niche by manufacturing eco-friendly pest control that merges traditional knowledge with modern technology. Her products, which have undergone rigorous lab testing in Sri Lanka and the Netherlands, are already being used by major agri corporations in Sri Lanka.

Nisansala’s journey into this field began with her academic background in sociology, where she researched the reasons behind the failure of the Sri Lankan government’s organic concept. The ill-fated policy of 2021 was a turning point for her. Realizing the need for eco-friendly alternatives that go beyond the haphazard government policies, she decided to enter the market, working closely with farmers and innovators. Her belief is simple: healthy living starts with the chemicals we put into the soil.

Despite the challenges of being a woman in the male-dominated agrochemical industry, Nisansala has remained steadfast in her mission. She doesn’t just market pesticides; she offers a solution that repels all pests, reducing the burden on farmers who would otherwise need to buy multiple chemicals. Her company now supplies over 50 major corporations and has a client base of 3,000, including 1,000 online customers.

Her fight is not just about business but about creating a sustainable future for Sri Lanka’s agriculture, where eco-friendly, non-hazardous pest control products can thrive.