A New Wave of Conservation: Spa Ceylon joins Biodiversity Sri Lanka to Protect Coral Reefs

Spa Ceylon, the world’s largest luxury Ayurveda brand has joined forces with Biodiversity Sri Lanka (BSL) to strengthen the “Life to Our Coral Reefs” initiative — an ambitious project to restore and conserve Sri Lanka’s vibrant coral ecosystems. Announced alongside Spa Ceylon’s latest Festive Collection, “Undersea Paradise,” this partnership seeks to spotlight the beauty and critical importance of coral reefs while inspiring people to protect these fragile ecosystems. The Life to Our Coral Reefs initiative was conceptualised and designed with the support of the Ambassade de France à Sri Lanka et aux Maldives.

The initiative is part of BSL’s LIFE Series, which is dedicated to preserving Sri Lanka’s unique natural landscapes, from lush forests and mangroves to pristine beaches and coral reefs. Coral reefs, covering less than 1% of the oceans yet supporting 25% of marine life, play an irreplaceable role in coastal protection and supporting livelihoods. However, they are under severe threat from climate change, pollution, and unsustainable fishing practices. Through collaborations with the Department of Wildlife Conservation, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Blue Resources Trust and the Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA), BSL is committed to reversing the tide.

With Spa Ceylon’s international reach across 33 countries and its dedication to ethical, eco-friendly practices, the partnership promises to amplify marine conservation efforts in Sri Lanka and beyond. The Undersea Paradise Festive Gallery at One Galle Face Mall from November 1-3 provides an immersive experience to inspire people to take action for marine conservation.

“Biodiversity is at the heart of today’s environmental challenges, from climate change to habitat loss,” says Dilhan Fernando, Chairperson of BSL. “It’s on all of us—businesses, NGOs, government, and individuals—to protect it. Through this collaboration, we hope to inspire others to safeguard our marine heritage for generations to come.”

By merging luxury wellness with ecological responsibility, Spa Ceylon and BSL are setting a powerful example of how businesses can lead the way in environmental stewardship, working together to make an enduring impact on Sri Lanka’s natural heritage.

The Vital Connection Between Biodiversity and Sustainability

In today’s rapidly changing world, the concepts of biodiversity and sustainability are more interconnected than ever before. ​ As leaders in the business community, it’s crucial to understand this nexus and take proactive steps to ensure that our economic activities support, rather than harm, the natural world that sustains us.

Why Biodiversity Matters

Biodiversity refers to the variety of life on Earth, encompassing different species, ecosystems, and genetic variations. ​ This diversity is not just about preserving the beauty of nature; it’s about maintaining the essential services that ecosystems provide. ​ These services include clean air and water, fertile soil for agriculture, pollination of crops, and climate regulation. In essence, biodiversity is the foundation of our well-being and economic prosperity. ​

The Role of Sustainability

Sustainability is about meeting our current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. ​ It involves balancing economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental protection. ​ When we integrate biodiversity into our sustainability efforts, we ensure that our natural resources are used wisely and conserved for the future. ​

The Business Case for Biodiversity

For businesses, embracing biodiversity and sustainability is not just a moral obligation; it’s a smart strategy. ​ Companies that prioritize these values often see numerous benefits, including:

• Enhanced Reputation: Consumers and investors are increasingly favoring companies that demonstrate environmental responsibility. By showing a commitment to biodiversity, your business can build a positive image and attract a loyal customer base that values sustainability.

• Risk Management: Healthy ecosystems can mitigate risks related to climate change, such as extreme weather events. For instance, forests and wetlands can act as natural buffers against floods and storms, reducing potential damage to infrastructure and operations. ​

• Innovation and Efficiency: Sustainable practices often lead to innovative solutions and more efficient use of resources, reducing costs in the long run. For example, adopting biodiverse agricultural practices can improve soil health and crop yields, leading to more resilient and productive farming systems. ​

• Market Opportunities: There is a growing market for eco-friendly products and services, providing new business opportunities. Consumers are willing to pay a premium for products that are sustainably sourced and produced, opening up new revenue streams for businesses that prioritize biodiversity. ​

Biodiversity Sri Lanka (BSL)

To make a meaningful impact, we invite you to join Biodiversity Sri Lanka (BSL). BSL is a platform that brings together businesses committed to biodiversity conservation and sustainable practices. By becoming a member, you can:

1. Collaborate: Work with other like-minded businesses to share knowledge and best practices. BSL provides a network where you can learn from the experiences of others and develop joint initiatives that amplify your impact.

• Report: Engage in biodiversity reporting to track and communicate your conservation efforts. Transparent reporting helps build trust with stakeholders and demonstrates your commitment to sustainability.

• Support: Contribute to projects that protect and restore Sri Lanka’s unique ecosystems. BSL facilitates various conservation projects that you can support, ensuring that your efforts are directed towards impactful and scientifically-backed initiatives.

Take Action Today

Your involvement through BSL can make a significant difference. Together, we can create a sustainable future where businesses thrive in harmony with nature. Let’s lead by example and show that economic success and environmental stewardship go hand in hand.

Boosting Sri Lanka’s Circular Conversion: The PLASTICS Project

Biodiversity Sri Lanka (BSL) is playing a pivotal role through the PLASTICS project, an ambitious, multi-partner initiative aimed at promoting a sustainable and circular economy for plastics in Sri Lanka. Funded by the EU’s SWITCH-Asia program, this 48-month project is designed to boost economic development in the plastics value and supply chains (V/SC) by supporting Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) through innovative approaches to resource efficiency, green finance, and sustainable waste management.

The overall objective of the project is to facilitate sustainable and innovative plastic minimisation and management in Sri Lanka by integrating SMEs in greener value and supply chains, thereby contributing to economic prosperity and environmental sustainability.

The four main outputs of the PLASTICS project are:

BSL’s Key Goals are Activity 3 and Activity 4.

Activity 3:           Access to green finance and Investment’s dimension are increased to scale up green economic initiatives, especially among Businesses

Activity 4:           The traceability, transparency, and compliance in plastic SWM are strengthened through public-private dialogue, collaboration and monitoring

A Focus on SMEs and Green Finance

The project aims to engage 150 SMEs, 10 entrepreneurs, and 50 Business Development Service providers to foster a collaborative environment for green business development. BSL’s work under Activity 3 involves engaging the SMEs in the circular economy, and creating awareness of green financing options. These awareness sessions, held in Colombo, Gampaha, and Kalutara in August and September 2024, encouraged SMEs to rethink their business models, adopting more sustainable and resilient approaches that align with circular economy principles.

Event held for SMEs in Colombo at the BMICH on 15 August 2024

Event held for SMEs in Kaluthara at the Royal Oshin hotel on 12 September 2024

Event held for SMEs in Gampaha at the KayJay hotel on 13 September 2024

Why promote a Circular Economy?

A circular economy promotes efficient use of resources, reducing waste by encouraging the reuse and recycling of materials. For businesses, especially in sectors that use plastics, adopting circular economy practices means less dependency on raw materials, cost savings, and compliance with evolving environmental regulations. Climate change is also a significant business risk, and understanding how to mitigate its impacts—while taking advantage of green finance options—can help businesses remain competitive in an increasingly eco-conscious market.

BSL is at the forefront of helping SMEs in Sri Lanka navigate these challenges, providing valuable insights into the circular economy and green financing incentives. These efforts are particularly focused on women-led businesses, helping them improve their competitiveness, expand their value addition, and access resources for scaling up sustainable practices.

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)

Another vital aspect of BSL’s contribution is through Activity 4, which focuses on advancing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in Sri Lanka. EPR shifts the responsibility for post-consumer plastic waste management onto producers, ensuring they play a key role in the entire lifecycle of their products—from production to disposal. This strategy encourages responsible manufacturing and supports the proper collection and recycling of plastics.

In August 2024, BSL co-hosted the EPR Symposium in collaboration with the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and environmental advocates to discuss how innovation can help advance environmental responsibility. The symposium was a unique opportunity to celebrate the progress made in promoting EPR in Sri Lanka, and to explore new frontiers in sustainable plastic management. By focusing on collaboration and innovation, BSL is helping Sri Lankan businesses take ownership of their environmental impact, ensuring that sustainability becomes a core part of their business strategies.

Looking Forward

With continued support from BSL and its partners, the PLASTICS project is paving the way for a sustainable future for Sri Lanka’s plastics industry. By promoting circular economy principles, facilitating access to green finance, and strengthening waste management frameworks, the project is helping businesses – both large and small – contribute to environmental conservation while improving their own resilience and competitiveness.

Through initiatives like the LIFE Series of projects and active collaboration with government agencies, BSL is ensuring that the private sector remains a powerful force for positive change in Sri Lanka’s journey towards sustainability.

Keep an eye on our newsletter for more updates on this transformative project, and find out how you can get involved in shaping a greener, more sustainable future for Sri Lanka.

Private Sector Commitment to Restore Sri Lanka’s Blue Carbon Ecosystems

Biodiversity Sri Lanka (BSL), in partnership with its members, government bodies, and conservation groups, continues to champion environmental stewardship through innovative restoration projects. One of BSL’s standout initiatives is the Life to Our Mangroves (LOM) project, which is dedicated to the restoration and preservation of vital blue carbon ecosystems in Sri Lanka.

The significance of blue carbon ecosystems, such as mangroves, lies in their ability to sequester large amounts of carbon, thereby playing a crucial role in combating climate change. Mangroves, with their dense root systems, stabilise coastlines, reduce erosion, and provide critical habitats for various species. Unfortunately, Sri Lanka’s mangrove forests have faced severe degradation, especially due to human activities like shrimp farming.

Plot 05

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Planted mangroves

The LOM project, a key example of BSL’s vision for ecological conservation, began with a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between BSL and the Department of Wildlife Conservation. The Wayamba University too has come on board providing technical and scientific advice. The initial phase of this ambitious project focused on the restoration of 10 hectares of degraded land within the Anawilundawa Ramsar Wetland Sanctuary in the North Western Province. This sanctuary is a critical habitat for many species, but decades of intensive shrimp aquaculture between the 1980s and 1990s severely disrupted the area’s natural ecosystems. By the late 1990s, the land was abandoned, but the damage from artificial barriers and pond dikes had already interrupted the natural hydrological flows necessary for the area’s regeneration.

With the assistance of the Wayamba University, the project has adopted a science-based approach to restore the natural water flow in the sanctuary. By studying the land’s contours and reintroducing tidal patterns, the project has effectively allowed water levels to regulate naturally, promoting sediment deposition and preparing the land for mangrove growth. As of now, 2.95 hectares have been successfully restored with native mangrove species, and an additional 3.08 hectares are in the process of preparation and planting. Looking forward, BSL plans to rehabilitate 7.9 hectares of land with mangrove associates and dry-zone plant species to recreate the natural ecosystem that once flourished in the area.

The success of the LOM project is largely driven by an impressive public-private partnership model. BSL’s efforts are supported by a growing number of key corporate partners such as Sampath Bank PLC, National Development Bank PLC (NDB), Citizens Development Business Finance PLC (CDB), Dole Lanka (PVT) Ltd, Easwaran Brothers Ceylon (Pvt) Ltd, Dynawash Limited, Virtusa (Pvt) Ltd, LOLC Finance PLC, Dilmah Conservation, and Amana Bank. These organisations, by signing MOUs with BSL, are actively contributing to the restoration of Sri Lanka’s blue carbon ecosystems. Their involvement demonstrates how private sector engagement can enhance environmental conservation efforts, setting a precedent for future collaborations.

This collective endeavor serves as a powerful model of sustainable partnerships in environmental stewardship. Not only does the project focus on ecosystem restoration, but it also reinforces the importance of corporate responsibility in combating climate change and promoting biodiversity. Through the LOM project, BSL is setting an example of how collaboration between the private sector, government bodies, and conservation organisations can lead to meaningful, long-term environmental impact.

With further restoration efforts on the horizon, the Life to Our Mangroves project is poised to leave a lasting positive imprint on Sri Lanka’s coastal ecosystems, contributing to the preservation of biodiversity and the mitigation of climate change.

Reviving Sri Lanka’s Coral Reefs

Biodiversity Sri Lanka is excited to announce the launch of the latest initiative in our “LIFE” series: called “Life to Our Coral Reefs – Project Kayankerni.” Set to commence this quarter, this groundbreaking conservation effort aims to protect the vibrant yet fragile coral ecosystems in Sri Lanka’s Kayankerni Marine Sanctuary, located in the Batticaloa District.

Coral reefs, though covering less than 1% of the world’s oceans, are home to 25% of all marine species. They provide critical ecosystem services such as coastal protection, food, recreation, and livelihoods for local communities. In the Kayankerni area, approximately 37% of the population relies on fishing and related activities for their livelihoods, underscoring the need for sustainable practices to ensure the long-term survival of this ecosystem.

Overcoming Challenges

Despite being one of Sri Lanka’s less disturbed marine environments, Kayankerni Reef faces several challenges. Unsustainable fishing practices, such as bottom-set nets, and the illegal use of explosives outside protected areas are contributing to coral damage and species loss. Agricultural runoff from the Maduru Oya basin, and nutrient-rich effluents from expanding aquaculture further threaten this delicate ecosystem. Without timely intervention, these factors could lead to further degradation of the reef.

In addition to the immediate threats posed by unsustainable fishing and pollution, climate change is emerging as a growing danger to the Kayankerni Reef. Rising sea temperatures are causing coral bleaching, a phenomenon where corals lose their vibrant colors and, more critically, their symbiotic algae, which are essential for their survival. This not only weakens the corals but also reduces their ability to support the diverse marine life that depends on them. According to research, even a slight increase in water temperature can trigger widespread bleaching events. Furthermore, ocean acidification, driven by increased carbon dioxide absorption, weakens coral skeletons, making them more susceptible to damage from storms and human activities. Without intervention, these climate-induced pressures could drastically reduce the reef’s resilience, undermining both biodiversity and the livelihoods of the local communities dependent on its health .

Meaningful Partnerships

In partnership with the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC) and Blue Resources Trust (BRT), BSL is spearheading the Life to Our Coral Reefs project as a Nature-based Solution (NbS) to address these threats. The project aims to restore the reef’s ecological balance while enhancing the livelihoods of the surrounding communities. In addition to safeguarding the coral ecosystem, the project will focus on protecting approximately 1,400 acres of mangroves and 20 acres of seagrass meadows, contributing to the overall health of the marine environment.

Guided by the IUCN Global Nature-based Solutions Standard, BSL will undertake baseline monitoring with the BRT under DWC supervision. This science-driven approach will ensure that we deliver measurable environmental and socio-economic benefits, building resilience and promoting ecosystem renewal.

We are pleased to announce that Commercial Bank, Dilmah Tea Company, and Citizens Development Business (CDB) PLC have already come on board as pioneering partners for this initiative. Commercial Bank and Dilmah officially signed agreements at our recent board meeting, while CDB completed their partnership at the BSL’s Annual General Meeting. With these valuable collaborators, BSL is ready to commence this transformative project. Our goal is to secure 10 private sector partners, creating a coalition dedicated to the preservation of Sri Lanka’s marine biodiversity.

Come join us for Coral Conservation

As we embark on this exciting journey, we invite more like-minded organizations to join us in safeguarding our coral reefs and ensuring a sustainable future for both nature and people. Join us to create a lasting impact on biodiversity and empower local communities to embrace sustainable practices that ensure the long-term health of the marine environment. Let’s build a coalition of committed partners who are passionate about marine conservation, where each contribution – be it financial support, expertise, or resources – will bring us closer to achieving our collective goals.

Join us in this crucial mission to save the Kayankerni Reef. Your partnership can help shape a brighter future, one where vibrant coral ecosystems thrive, and local communities flourish in harmony with nature. Together, we can foster a sustainable legacy that benefits both the environment and future generations.

The Kanneliya Project’s Milestone Achievement

The Life to Our Forests – Project Kanneliya has achieved a remarkable milestone by receiving the prestigious Ecosystem Restoration Standard Award from Preferred by Nature. This recognition, awarded on July 8, 2024, highlights the project’s commitment to sustainable land use and effective ecosystem restoration practices.

Ecosystem Restoration Verification Process

The journey towards this award began with a rigorous Ecosystem Restoration Verification Audit conducted by Preferred by Nature on January 19-20, 2024. This audit involved a thorough assessment of the restoration efforts at the field level, including documentation reviews, field observations, and interviews with key stakeholders such as the Restoration Manager and field workers. The audit team found no significant nonconformities, affirming that the project’s restoration practices are scientifically sound and verifiable. During the second day of the audit, Mr. Naalin Perera from IUCN joined the BSL team to monitor ongoing maintenance work at the project site. His insights were invaluable in identifying areas for future improvement, ensuring that the project continues to evolve and thrive. This audit is notable as one of the first of its kind in Asia, showcasing Sri Lanka’s leadership in ecosystem restoration verification.

A Collaborative Effort

The award ceremony brought together all 15 project partners, including prominent companies like Access Engineering PLC and Dilmah Ceylon Tea Company PLC. Each partner received certificates recognizing their contributions to this significant ecological initiative. The independent verification by Preferred by Nature ensures that all partners’ restoration efforts align with global best practices, enhancing their credibility and attracting further recognition.This collaborative effort not only contributes to local ecological restoration but also plays a vital role in global environmental initiatives. By adhering to the Ecosystem Restoration Standard, project partners can demonstrate their commitment to responsible land management and sustainable business practices, driving positive environmental impacts across the region.

A Bright Future for Ecosystem Restoration

The success of the Kanneliya Project serves as an inspiring example of how effective partnerships and rigorous standards can lead to meaningful ecological restoration. With the recent recognition from Preferred by Nature, this initiative not only showcases the importance of sustainable land use practices but also highlights Sri Lanka’s leadership role in the global movement for ecosystem restoration.

As we celebrate this achievement, it is clear that continued collaboration and adherence to best practices will be essential for sustaining our forests and ensuring a healthier planet for future generations. Let us build on this momentum, inspiring others to join the cause and contribute to the vital work of restoring our ecosystems.

Join the Wave: Let’s Keep Sri Lanka’s Beaches Beautiful

The “Life to Our Beaches” project, initiated by Biodiversity Sri Lanka and the Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA), is an inspiring initiative dedicated to preserving and cleaning Sri Lanka’s beautiful coastal areas. This annual project focuses on enhancing the cleanliness and ecological health of our beaches, ensuring they remain pristine and welcoming for both residents and tourists.

This year, the project has received an exciting boost with the Citizen Development Bank (CDB) joining as a new partner, demonstrating their commitment to environmental conservation. Together, we aim to make a significant impact on three major beach areas: Dehiwala, Wellawatta and Mt. Lavinia.

The “Life to Our Beaches” initiative is not only about removing waste but also about educating the public on the importance of protecting our marine environment. The combined effort of BSL, MEPA, and CDB is expected to inspire more organisations and communities to participate in maintaining these beautiful coastlines. By bringing together the expertise and resources of these organizations, the project is set to make a lasting difference, ensuring that our beaches remain safe and clean.

As we continue to expand our efforts, we invite more private sector companies to join us in this vital mission. Your participation can significantly amplify our impact, fostering a collective commitment to safeguarding our coastlines. Together, we can champion sustainable practices, inspire community engagement, and ensure a cleaner, healthier environment for future generations. Join us in making a difference today!

Revitalising Our Parks for Wildlife Restoration

The “LIFE to Our National Parks” (LONP) project is making significant strides in restoring the biodiversity of Sri Lanka’s Lunugamvehera National Park, a crucial sanctuary for wildlife and a key migratory route for elephants. This ambitious initiative focuses on reversing the damaging effects of Invasive Alien Plant Species (IAPS), which have overrun large portions of the park, drastically affecting the habitat and feeding grounds for herbivores. Two of the most problematic species targeted by this project are Lantana camara (commonly known as Gandapana) and Eupatorium odoratum (Podi Singho Maran), both notorious for their aggressive spread and ability to choke out native vegetation, threatening the park’s delicate ecological balance.

The project is spearheaded by the Federation of Environmental Organizations (FEO) in collaboration with the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC), under the broader umbrella of Biodiversity Sri Lanka’s mission to enhance the vitality of the nation’s protected areas. These restoration efforts began in 2021, with manual removal methods aimed at eliminating Lantana camara and Eupatorium odoratum from large areas of the park, allowing native flora to regenerate. Early results have been encouraging, with native grasses returning and wildlife like elephants and deer rediscovering their natural feeding grounds.

Entry of the Champions

A major success for the LONP project has been the involvement of private sector partners. HNB Assurance (HNBA) was the first corporate entity to join the project in November 2023, funding the clearing of 15 hectares of invasive plants. By January 2024, the initial phase was complete, and HNBA committed to supporting the restoration of an additional 15 hectares, bringing their total contribution to 30 hectares of habitat revitalization. Their involvement has been a critical component in restoring essential feeding grounds for elephants and other herbivores, which is also helping to reduce human-wildlife conflict in nearby communities.

Following HNBA’s lead, DIMO Lanka recently joined the LONP project as a new partner, further strengthening the initiative by committing to restore another 15 hectares of land. With the inclusion of DIMO Lanka’s contribution, the total area under restoration now stands at 45 hectares, showcasing the expanding influence of the LONP project. This collaborative approach, involving both public and private sector stakeholders, reflects a growing recognition of the need for concerted efforts to address environmental degradation in Sri Lanka’s national parks.

Multiple Impacts

The project’s impact extends beyond environmental restoration. Local communities, many of whom were adversely affected by the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic, have benefited from employment opportunities created by the project. Around 60 workers from nearby villages have been involved in the labor-intensive process of manually removing the invasive plants, providing them with a stable source of income. This not only uplifts the livelihoods of these communities but also fosters a sense of environmental stewardship among local residents.

The removal of IAPS is also crucial in addressing the ongoing human-elephant conflict in the region. As invasive species have taken over key habitats, elephants have been forced to move beyond park boundaries in search of food, often resulting in damage to crops and conflict with local farmers. By restoring the park’s natural feeding grounds, the LONP project aims to reduce these conflicts and create a more harmonious relationship between humans and wildlife.

A Transformative Initiative

As we celebrate the achievements of the “LIFE to Our National Parks” project, we recognise that meaningful change is only possible through collaboration. We invite more private sector companies to join this transformative initiative and contribute to the restoration of Sri Lanka’s precious ecosystems. Your partnership can amplify our efforts to revitalise Lunugamvehera National Park, enhance biodiversity, and support local communities affected by environmental challenges. Together, we can create a sustainable future where wildlife thrives, and local livelihoods prosper. Join us in making a lasting impact – your involvement is key to nurturing the natural heritage of Sri Lanka!

10 Best National Parks of Sri Lanka:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9U-4lenJ9Do