Sri Lanka being a hotspot of biodiversity is blessed with a plethora of genetic combinations which add value to the Island’s inherent natural richness. These encompass a wide variety of chemically active compounds having a diverse spectrum of applications related to human health. There is a growing concern on use of natural constituents over synthetic in terms of sustainability, human and environmental safety. In this context, NSF in collaboration with the National Academy of Sciences Sri Lanka (NASSL) organized a public lecture on ‘Natural Products in Society – Patient-Focused Challenges for the Future’ delivered by Professor Emeritus Geoffrey A. Cordell (Natural Products Inc., Evanston, IL USA, and College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL USA) which was held on 13th August 2024 at its auditorium. The lecture shed pointers and flashes of insights of diverse roles of biologically active natural products in society from sustainability, health care, and environmental aspects along with the foreshadowing challenges and opportunities with respect to maintaining and optimizing Earth’s resources towards a sustainable future. The event was attended by 60 participants comprising of academia, researchers, industrialists and students attended this event. Sponsorship by Link Naturals Products Pvt Ltd. enabling visit of Prof. Geoffrey A. Cordell to Sri Lanka is greatly acknowledged.