Introducing the BSL LIFE Series: Leading Initiatives for Environment and Sustainability

In today’s world, where environmental sustainability is both a global priority and a pressing need, businesses are expected to lead by example. Biodiversity Sri Lanka (BSL) recognizes this urgency and provides its members with a powerful platform to address environmental challenges in a meaningful way. Through our LIFE Series (Leading Initiatives for Environment), BSL connects, empowers, and inspires member companies to adopt sustainable practices that support biodiversity and make a tangible impact on the ground.

What is the LIFE Series?

The LIFE Series is a suite of carefully designed initiatives that provide BSL members with resources, opportunities, and guidance to advance their sustainability efforts. It’s more than a program – it’s a journey where businesses from various sectors can learn, innovate, and act collectively. The LIFE Series emphasizes collaborative action, knowledge sharing, and hands-on engagement with pressing environmental issues in Sri Lanka.

While understanding the broad benefits of reversing the trend in environmental degradation, most companies are reluctant to begin intervening in natural ecosystem restoration as this requires specialised knowledge and long-term involvement. BSL has recognised the fact that such businesses need technical support as well as assistance in liasing with government stakeholders. Using many years of experience in facilitating field-based interventions and leveraging on the strong relationship built with the public sector in Sri Lanka, BSL has now packaged its field activities to offer the LIFE Series of projects to the private sector.

The LIFE Series currently comprises of five pathways for corporate involvement in nature-positive environmental interventions at a national level:

1. Life to Our Forests (LOF) – Restoration of a degraded fern land in the Kanneliya Forest Reserve in collaboration with the Forest Department and IUCN with the objective of creating a legacy of conservation for generations to come by preserving the biodiversity of Sri Lanka’s rainforests.
2. Life to Our Mangroves (LOM) – Restoration of mangrove ecosystems to showcase private sector engagement in achieving national biodiversity conservation and climate action goals. This project promotes Accelerated Natural Regeneration of Mangroves (ANRM) to increase carbon sequestration and boost ecosystem services of degraded mangrove ecosystems in collaboration with Wayamba University and the Department of Wildlife Conservation.
3. Life to Our Coral Reefs (LOCR) – This is an initiative of Biodiversity Sri Lanka to showcase private sector commitment to conserve Sri Lanka’s blue resources. In collaboration with the Department of Wildlife Conservation, IUCN and the Blue Resources Trust, the project empowers local communities to adopt sustainable practices that safeguard vital ocean resources.
4. Life to Our Beaches (LOB) – By empowering local communities – particularly women – to take care of their beaches as a viable livelihood option, this project provides a pathway for the private sector to protect Sri Lanka’s shores with the support of the Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA).
5. Life to Our National Parks (LONP) – This is a collaborative initiative of Biodiversity Sri Lanka to showcase private sector engagement in enriching wildlife habitats. The project engages surrounding communities in the removal of Invasive Alien Plant Species (IAPS) in national parks by supporting livelihoods that restore wildlife habitats. This is a collective effort of BSL and the Federation of Environmental Organisations (FEO) together with the Department of Wildlife Conservation.

Biodiversity Sri Lanka encourages businesses to work closely with government agencies and NGOs through the LIFE Series of projects that focus on providing economic benefits to local communities while safeguarding natural ecosystems. This could include supporting rural livelihoods through sustainable farming initiatives, promoting eco-tourism, or funding biodiversity research.

Each initiative within the LIFE Series addresses specific aspects of biodiversity conservation and sustainable practices, making it possible for companies to choose pathways that align with their unique environmental commitments. The program offers diverse activities, from technical workshops and field training to collaborative projects that bring businesses and conservation experts together.

Why LIFE Series Matters to Businesses

Environmental leadership is now a key component of a company’s reputation and success. In Sri Lanka, consumers, investors, and communities alike are increasingly interested in businesses that demonstrate real commitment to sustainability. The LIFE Series helps member companies integrate sustainable practices into their business models while showcasing these efforts to stakeholders who value responsible business conduct.

By participating in the LIFE Series, companies can:

• Gain Practical Knowledge: The LIFE Series offers workshops, seminars, and resources that equip businesses with practical tools for tackling environmental challenges. From eco-friendly supply chain management to biodiversity conservation strategies, the LIFE Series covers essential skills that help businesses thrive sustainably.
• Build Partnerships: At BSL, we believe in the power of partnerships. LIFE Series initiatives create a space for companies to connect with like-minded businesses, conservationists, and experts. Together, our members share ideas, build solutions, and drive initiatives that extend beyond individual actions to collective impact.
• Demonstrate Accountability: Through regular reporting, impact assessments, and project visibility, BSL members who engage in the LIFE Series can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability. This accountability is critical in building trust with customers, investors, and communities.
• Make Ground-level Impact: The LIFE Series is designed to generate measurable environmental benefits. Whether through habitat restoration, pollution reduction, or awareness campaigns, each initiative within the series is crafted to make a lasting, positive impact on Sri Lanka’s natural environment.

Key Components of the LIFE Series

The LIFE Series is divided into several key components, each designed to address a different facet of sustainability. Some highlights include:

1. LIFE Talks and Technical Sessions: These sessions bring together industry experts, scientists, and policymakers to discuss the latest developments in biodiversity conservation and sustainable practices. LIFE Talks provide an invaluable learning opportunity for members, helping them stay informed and engaged with global and local environmental trends.
2. Field Projects and Conservation Activities: From coastal clean-ups to forest restoration projects, the LIFE Series organizes hands-on activities where members can contribute directly to the environment. These projects not only offer employees a chance to get involved but also give businesses the opportunity to show their commitment to real, on-the-ground change.
3. Capacity-Building Workshops: BSL offers tailored training sessions for companies that want to strengthen their sustainability initiatives. Topics range from carbon footprint reduction to water conservation, giving businesses the tools they need to enhance their own environmental practices and inspire others in their industry.
4. The LIFE Recognition Program: This program celebrates outstanding contributions to sustainability by recognizing member companies that go above and beyond. The LIFE Recognition Program awards businesses that have shown exceptional dedication to environmental stewardship, highlighting their achievements and motivating others to follow suit.

Success Stories: The LIFE Series in Action

The LIFE Series has already achieved significant results, thanks to the commitment and passion of BSL’s members. For example, our recent reforestation project in Kanneliya has brought together businesses, local communities, and environmental experts to restore degraded forest areas and improve biodiversity. Members who participated in this initiative have seen firsthand the power of collective action and the benefits it brings to both nature and business.

Another success story is the BSL Plastic Waste Reduction Initiative, where companies from various sectors collaborated to reduce single-use plastics in their operations. By sharing best practices and implementing waste reduction measures, these businesses have successfully minimized their environmental impact while demonstrating the benefits of sustainable practices to their employees and clients.

Why Join the LIFE Series?

The LIFE Series is designed for companies that are ready to make a meaningful impact on Sri Lanka’s environment. By joining, you not only gain access to a supportive network of like-minded businesses but also position yourself as a leader in sustainability. Whether you’re looking to improve internal practices, strengthen community relations, or boost your environmental credibility, the LIFE Series offers a pathway to achieving your goals.

At BSL, we understand that sustainability is a journey, and we’re here to support our members every step of the way. By joining the LIFE Series, your company becomes part of a movement that’s reshaping Sri Lanka’s environmental future. Together, we can make a difference that lasts.

Get Involved

If you’re ready to take your sustainability journey to the next level, we invite you to explore the LIFE Series and see how your business can benefit. For more information or to discuss how your company can join, please reach out to us at BSL. Together, let’s lead the way toward a sustainable, biodiverse Sri Lanka.

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

Plot 07

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.

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

The Business Case for Enhanced Biodiversity Reporting

Biodiversity reporting has become a critical focus for businesses, especially in light of new international regulations. The Global Data and Biodiversity Framework (GDF), established at COP 15, emphasises the importance of understanding various regulations, such as the EU’s Deforestation Regulation, which directly impacts supply chains. Companies involved in exports must prepare for due diligence regarding their biodiversity impacts, ensuring compliance with these emerging standards.

Many organisations face significant challenges in data collection and reporting, which are essential for demonstrating their sustainability efforts. To address these challenges, tools like the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) and the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) are recommended to enhance reporting practices and ensure transparency in operations.

Implementing Initiatives

Financial implications are also paramount, as businesses will need to account for their ecological impacts in financial statements. The upcoming International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) will require companies to quantify their biodiversity dependencies and impacts, making proactive environmental management crucial. Current actions taken by businesses will shape future reports, highlighting the importance of long-term planning.

Successful examples of companies implementing biodiversity initiatives illustrate that collaboration across sectors is vital for effective biodiversity management. Addressing biodiversity is not just a regulatory requirement; it also presents an opportunity for businesses to showcase their commitment to sustainability.

Impacts and Dependencies

Key frameworks like the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) can help businesses identify and assess nature-related risks and opportunities. TNFD’s integrated approach for the identification and assessment of nature-related issues called the LEAP approach is designed for use by organisations of all sizes and across all sectors and geographies. By employing a LEAP framework, companies can better understand their impacts and dependencies on biodiversity.

Globally, businesses are urged to adopt comprehensive reporting practices and engage in collaborative efforts to enhance resilience while contributing positively to environmental conservation. By understanding their value chains and interactions with nature, companies can effectively manage risks associated with biodiversity loss while seizing opportunities for sustainable growth.

Private Sector Driving National Initiatives

Sri Lanka is making significant efforts to protect its biodiversity and align with global environmental initiatives. One of the key steps the country has taken is the formation of the National Biosecurity Team to implement the goals set by the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), which Sri Lanka ratified in 1994. These efforts aim to develop sustainable practices across various sectors, with a focus on fostering harmony between people and nature by 2050. However, the government alone cannot achieve these ambitious goals. The involvement of the private sector is crucial for making meaningful progress.

The National Biodiversity Strategic and Action Plan (NBSAP) outlines 20 strategic targets aimed at conserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable development. These targets address a wide range of areas, from raising public awareness and integrating biodiversity into national economic policies, to protecting ecosystems and promoting sustainable resource management. Some targets specifically call on the private sector to engage in biodiversity conservation, disclosing their environmental impacts and adopting sustainable practices.

New Approaches to Landscape Management

Despite having strong frameworks in place, the government faces challenges in implementing many of these targets. For example, there are six comprehensive plans for nature-based tourism developed by the World Bank’s Ecosystem Conservation and Management Project (ESCAMP), but they remain inactive due to funding challenges. These plans, if activated, could bring in local and international visitors, boosting the economy and fostering sustainable tourism. The private sector’s involvement in such initiatives could unlock tremendous potential and help bring these dormant projects to life.

Another area where private sector involvement is critical is in landscape management. There are two well-developed plans for biodiversity-rich areas prepared by ESCAMP. One such plan is the Sinharaja Forest Range Landscape Management Plan. The other such comprehensive plan is the Hurulu-Kaudulla-Kanthale Landscape Management Plan. Businesses have an excellent opportunity to invest in sustainable practices within these landscapes, benefiting from their natural beauty and contributing to long-term conservation efforts. By working together with the government and other stakeholders, the private sector can help realize the full potential of these regions and play a key role in preserving Sri Lanka’s natural heritage.

Funding Biodiversity Management

The biggest obstacle to implementing many of these sustainable initiatives is the lack of financial resources. Here, the private sector can step in by co-financing projects that need funding to get started. Whether through direct investments, partnerships, or other funding arrangements, businesses can help support sustainable tourism, conservation, and biodiversity management projects.

The government is eager to collaborate with the private sector and is open to showcasing potential projects where partnerships can lead to meaningful progress. Through these collaborations, both the private sector and the government can achieve greater success in driving sustainable initiatives that benefit the environment and the economy.

Unlocking Potential through Collaboration

The active participation of the private sector is essential to achieving Sri Lanka’s biodiversity and sustainability goals. By fostering collaborative partnerships with the government and other stakeholders, businesses can help overcome financial and operational challenges while making a significant positive impact on both the economy and the environment.

Together, we can leverage resources, share knowledge, and drive innovative solutions to create a sustainable future that not only benefits nature but also enhances economic growth and community resilience. Engaging in these partnerships will not only pave the way for sustainable development but also position the private sector as a leader in environmental stewardship. Biodiversity Sri Lanka is committed to make this a reality.

Derived from the discussions that took place on this subject at the 2024 Annual Technical Sessions of Biodiversity Sri Lanka.