Odel receives award for role in animal welfare

Odel has been acknowledged for 'Outstanding Contribution by a Corporation' to the welfare of community animals through its Embark initiative, at the Animals Asia Welfare Awards 2011.These awards, also known as 'The Andrews' in memory of Andrew, the first bear to arrive at the Animals Asia Rescue Centre in Chengdu, China, in October 2000, recognise the passionate efforts of organisations and individuals committed to the welfare of animals.

A total of nine awards were presented in Chengdu at the 'Asia for Animals Conference 2011' to individuals and organisations nominated by delegates who attended the conference. ODEL was the only corporate entity recognised at the event. The conference was held under the theme 'Out of the Box - bringing animal cruelty to an end.'

Presenting the award, Animals Asia commended ODEL for successfully persuading people to reduce cruelty to animals and focus on animal welfare through the Embark Corporate Responsibility initiative.

A statement by the organization said, "Project Embark has been a good partner and supporter to key Sri Lankan animal welfare NGOs and with its high profile, backed by the respected ODEL name, has raised awareness about animal welfare issues in Sri Lanka, especially in the media."

"It is a great honour for Embark to be recognized at an international forum which acknowledges passionate contributions of individuals and organisations committed to the welfare of animals," said Embark Business Operations Head Ashani Unamboowe.