I am Gallage Fernando, former senior chemist with over 15 years of experience.
My career has been shaped by a deep commitment to innovation, sustainability, and product development in textile coatings. I have a proven record of leading R&D teams to deliver cutting-edge, sustainable solutions for leading global brands such as NIKE, Victoria’s Secret, M&S, Adidas, and SPEEDO.
Throughout my career, I have championed the design and implementation of innovation roadmaps, ensuring continuous improvement with a strong focus on environmental sustainability. I specialize in developing eco-friendly coating solutions that align with the shifting landscape of global textile manufacturing, delivering value not only for clients but also for the planet. My forward-thinking approach addresses industry challenges, promotes resource optimization, and leverages scientific and technical advancements for impactful change.
My passion for waste and resource management, the circular economy, and sustainable innovation drives my professional journey. I am enthusiastic about expanding my technical expertise, particularly in Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) studies, to better analyse the environmental impacts of sustainable product developments and operations.
A key area of interest for me is conducting studies that evaluate and minimize the environmental impacts of industrial practices. I aim to deliver meaningful change by developing initiatives that promote energy conservation, waste reduction, and resource efficiency, ensuring that sustainability becomes ingrained in every stage of product development and operational planning.
In pursuit of these goals, I have actively engaged in collaborative research with academic and industry partners. As part of my sustainability journey, I led a significant project with the Department of Polymer Science at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka, to create a sustainable fabric printing ink for MAS Nirmana, the country’s leading garment manufacturer. This project addressed the urgent issue of textile waste and pollution by pioneering a method to separate polyester-cotton blended fabrics and extract micro cellulose. Utilizing this naturally biodegradable cellulose, we developed an innovative screen-printing ink that contributes to textile recycling and promotes sustainable manufacturing practices.
Recently, I completed my MSc in Sustainability and Environmental Studies, which enhanced my interdisciplinary knowledge and critical skills necessary to tackle complex environmental challenges. My dissertation assessed the life cycle of alginate-based bricks, focusing on their potential as sustainable alternatives to conventional construction materials. I explored the use of sodium alginate—a biopolymer derived from seaweed (Laminaria Hyperborea)—highlighting the remarkable possibilities of bio-based innovation.
I am driven by the conviction that science, research, and responsible resource management can transform industries for a more sustainable future. As I continue my journey, I am committed to leveraging my expertise in chemistry, sustainability, and environmental studies to create a positive impact for businesses, communities, and the environment worldwide.