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.

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.

Reporting on Nature and Biodiversity

The First Segment of Biodiversity Sri Lanka’s 9th Annual Technical Sessions held in early September 2024 was titled: “Corporate Reporting on Nature and Biodiversity: What’s Next?”, focused on the growing importance of integrating biodiversity considerations into corporate sustainability reporting. With biodiversity loss accelerating, businesses are increasingly expected to report their impacts and dependencies on nature, alongside their traditional environmental and financial disclosures.

Session Overview

The session emphasised the shift toward more comprehensive corporate reporting, where nature and biodiversity are viewed as critical components of sustainability. Many companies are now facing pressure from investors, regulators, and stakeholders to disclose how their operations affect ecosystems and what steps they are taking to mitigate these impacts. The panel discussion delved into the evolving frameworks that businesses can adopt to incorporate biodiversity into their Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reports, while also exploring the challenges and opportunities in this field.

Resource Persons

The session featured distinguished experts, with Ms. Pyumi Sumanasekera delivering the Keynote Address. The interesting panel discussion was moderated by Head of Sustainability/Senior Assistant Vice President of John Keells Holdings Ms Anosha Koralage. The panelists from both the private sector and environmental organisations included Executive Director of UN Global Compact Mr Rathika de Silva, Executive Director/Chief Financial Officer of DIMO Mr Suresh Gooneratne, and Senior Manager – Sustainability & CSR of INSEE Cement Mr Suresh Lakmal, Consultant – Ministry of Environment Dr Jinie Dela. The panelists discussed global trends in nature-related financial disclosures, the tools available to businesses for assessing their impacts on biodiversity, and the steps Sri Lankan companies can take to lead in this growing area of corporate accountability.

Panel Discussion Highlights

The panel discussed practical ways to incorporate nature-related disclosures into existing reporting frameworks and highlighted the importance of partnerships between businesses, government agencies, and conservation groups. This collaboration is key to driving action on biodiversity protection while maintaining economic resilience.

• The need for companies to integrate nature into their climate transition strategies.
• How frameworks like the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) are being adapted for biodiversity.
• The role of businesses in addressing biodiversity loss as part of a holistic approach to sustainability.

By adopting best practices in biodiversity reporting, Sri Lankan businesses can not only contribute to environmental sustainability but also strengthen their position in the global market as responsible and forward-thinking companies.

Call to Action

Session 1 concluded with a call to action for Sri Lankan businesses to embrace biodiversity reporting. The discussion underscored the necessity for companies to not only address climate change but also biodiversity loss, which is deeply interconnected with their long-term sustainability. Through better reporting practices and collaboration, businesses can protect Sri Lanka’s natural resources and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future.

Step Up for Nature: Why Sri Lanka’s Private Sector Must Join Forces for Biodiversity!

As the world faces accelerating climate change, dwindling resources, and increasing social expectations, traditional business models are quickly becoming obsolete. Sustainability is no longer just an ethical choice—it’s essential for long-term success and resilience of the business environment. Today’s forward-thinking businesses understand that responsible resource management isn’t just about survival; it’s about thriving in a future where environmental and social risks will shape the market. While many global companies have made strides by setting sustainability goals and improving supply chains, the urgency of the climate crisis shows that progress must be faster and more impactful. Now, sustainability isn’t just a trend—it’s the new standard for global competitiveness and innovation.

With Sri Lanka’s natural resources under increasing pressure, businesses have a huge role to play in preserving the island’s stunning biodiversity. While traditionally seen as the responsibility of governments and NGOs, protecting our environment is no longer a side issue for companies—it’s becoming essential for the long-term success of local enterprises. Established

Established in 2012 by the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce as the Sri Lanka Business and Biodiversity Platform, and then incorporated as Biodiversity Sri Lanka, BSL is a unique private-sector-driven network that provides the perfect opportunity for Sri Lankan companies to step up, make a difference, and be recognised as sustainability leaders.

Boosting your CSR Impact

Consumers and investors are now evaluating companies not just on profits but on their contribution to social and environmental good. According to a recent Deloitte survey, 58% of consumers now actively seek companies that align with their values, including sustainability. Biodiversity Sri Lanka offers a platform where businesses can channel their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts into impactful biodiversity projects, such as the ongoing Life to Our Forests initiative in Kanneliya, which focuses on restoring Sri Lanka’s forests, one of the most biodiverse areas in the country.

Joining Biodiversity Sri Lanka lets your company align with crucial conservation goals while enhancing your CSR footprint. Whether it’s sponsoring tree planting initiatives, protecting mangroves, or financing wildlife conservation, you’ll be directly involved in projects that make a difference.

Enhancing ESG Credentials

The Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria are increasingly influencing investment decisions. Studies show that companies with strong ESG practices tend to outperform their peers financially. In fact, firms with higher ESG ratings have 28% higher returns compared to those lagging behind, according to a report by McKinsey & Company. Biodiversity Sri Lanka can help Sri Lankan companies strengthen their ESG credentials by providing a structured approach to biodiversity conservation, complete with measurable impacts and international visibility.

For instance, by participating in Biodiversity Sri Lanka-led initiatives like wetland conservation or agroforestry projects, businesses can showcase tangible contributions to biodiversity in their sustainability reports, appealing to both investors and eco-conscious consumers.

A Global Network of Expertise

Biodiversity Sri Lanka is not just a local initiative—it’s connected to global giants like the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD), and the Global Partnership for Business and Biodiversity (GPBB). These partnerships bring international expertise, funding opportunities, and innovative ideas to Sri Lanka’s biodiversity conservation landscape while focusing on scientific approaches.

When your company joins Biodiversity Sri Lanka, you tap into this wealth of knowledge and collaboration, gaining access to resources and strategies that align with global best practices. Whether it’s sustainable agriculture, waste management, or climate change adaptation, Biodiversity Sri Lanka provides the tools, expertise, and networks to help businesses succeed in sustainability efforts.

Working to Achieve Global Goals

Sri Lanka is a signatory to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and has committed to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Private sector engagement is critical for achieving these ambitious biodiversity targets, particularly in protecting ecosystems, restoring habitats, and halting species loss. Biodiversity Sri Lanka actively aligns its work with these international frameworks, giving companies an easy entry point to contribute to global biodiversity and sustainability goals.

By joining Biodiversity Sri Lanka, your company will be part of a movement that is driving positive change locally while contributing to global initiatives like the Paris Agreement on Climate Change and the Aichi Biodiversity Targets.

How You Can Join Hands with BSL

Biodiversity Sri Lanka offers flexible opportunities for private sector engagement, recognising that every business has unique capabilities and interests. Here are a few ways for your business to contribute:

Many Biodiversity Sri Lanka members have been involved in supporting on-the-ground conservation work such as reforesting degraded lands, restoring mangrove ecosystems, and protecting wildlife corridors. For example, Biodiversity Sri Lanka’s mangrove restoration project is helping safeguard coastal ecosystems from erosion and climate change impacts.

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 time 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 its strong relationship 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.

With science and technology constantly evolving to monitor, report, and streamline environmental interventions, Biodiversity Sri Lanka provides capacity-building opportunities for businesses to learn how they can integrate biodiversity conservation into their operational practices. This is organized through the BSL Academy which organises workshops on sustainable agriculture, eco-friendly business models, biodiversity management, sustainability reporting, and so on.

Companies that join Biodiversity Sri Lanka can use their voice to advocate for better environmental policies, aligning with national efforts to strengthen Sri Lanka’s biodiversity laws and protection measures. As a well-respected entity by the Government, BSL has been advocating for more stringent policies to protect and conserve Sri Lanka’s natural resources.

Is Your Organisation Eligible?

Biodiversity Sri Lanka’s membership is open to any company that recognises the need for environmental sustainability and wants to be part of the solution in a pragmatic manner. The platform already includes some of the country’s leading corporates across industries like agriculture, tourism, manufacturing, and finance. Becoming a member of Biodiversity Sri Lanka will provide the ideal platform for driving environmental impact and aligning with both local and global sustainability trends if your business:

• Relies on natural resources (e.g., agriculture, fisheries, forestry)
• Operates in sectors affected by environmental change (e.g., real estate, tourism)
• Has a large environmental footprint (e.g., manufacturing, transportation)
• Sees the potential for nature-based investments (e.g., banking, renewable energy, recycling)
• Seeks to improve its ESG ratings or CSR impact

It is Now Time to Act Together

In 2023, a UN report warned that without urgent action, one million species globally are at risk of extinction due to human activities, including habitat destruction and pollution. Sri Lanka is at a tipping point. Our forests are shrinking, coastal ecosystems are deteriorating, and climate change is intensifying the threats to biodiversity. We’ve already seen alarming declines in species like the Sri Lankan leopard and the purple-faced langur. But there is hope. By committing to biodiversity conservation through platforms like Biodiversity Sri Lanka, your company can be part of the solution. Don’t wait until it’s too late. The time for businesses to act is now. If you are a company operating in Sri Lanka looking to make a lasting difference while also improving your bottom line, joining Biodiversity Sri Lanka is the way forward. Join Biodiversity Sri Lanka today and help protect the natural world that sustains us all. Together, we can ensure that future generations inherit a country as rich in biodiversity as the one we’ve been fortunate enough to enjoy.

The Return of the Giants

We are delighted to announce that the ‘Elephant Gathering’ in Sri Lanka – a major attraction for wildlife enthusiasts – is now happening again in Minneriya National Park, after a lapse of some years. Popular among both national and international tourists, this annual gathering, usually occurring from July to October, sees smaller elephant herds from surrounding habitats congregate at Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks. This congregation, fuelled by the diminishing water and food resources in other areas, provides a spectacular sight as the elephants socialise, bathe, drink, feed and potentially find mates. Recognised as the sixth-largest animal gathering globally by Lonely Planet and acclaimed by BBC and CNN Travel, this natural phenomenon offers visitors a unique and memorable experience.

The Minneriya Tank or reservoir is situated in the North Central province. This huge, ancient, man-made reservoir covering 1890 hectares (4670 acres), was constructed by King Mahasen in the 3rd century AD. This reservoir fills up during the North-East monsoon. As the rains cease and the dry season begins, the drought takes its toll, and the water in the reservoir starts to dry up. Although the reservoir shrinks dramatically, it never really runs dry. As the water recedes, it leaves behind fertile, moist soil, where lush grass quickly sprouts. This provides elephants with excellent and much sort-after nutritious food.

The Moragahakanda/Kalu-Ganga irrigation project was originally to supply water through a 24 km pipeline to the Hurulu Oya tank, and then distribute the water from there, to farmers in the North-Central province. Due to delays in completing the pipeline, it was decided a few years ago to divert the water to the Minneriya tank. Though many representations were made to the Government warning of the calamity that would befall the Gathering, the project was commissioned in 2018. 

Since then, the discharge of water into the Minneriya tank completely changed the natural rise and fall of water levels – consequently disrupting the gathering of wild elephants. “There is scientific and anecdotal evidence that very young calves were seen to be dying of malnutrition in Minneriya. Many adult elephants were in an emaciated condition due to poor sources of food. The elephant population in the lake field dropped from 389 to 50 over a period of six years,” says Elephant Ethologist and Lead of the National Action Plan for Human-Elephant Conflict Mitigation, Dr Sumith Pilapitiya. He made this observation based on a study carried out on the elephant population in the Minneriya National Park from 2016 to 2021.Dr Pilapitiya noted that in 2016, 389 elephants were recorded from the area; 402 elephants in 2017; 354 in 2018; 223 in 2019; 210 elephants in 2020; while only 20 were recorded in 2021. Further research undertaken by Dr Pilapitiya has shown that there is a definite correlation of the number of elephants and the water levels in the reservoir. He has shown that since the water from the Moragahakande dam was released to the Minneriya reservoir, there was a marked depletion of the number of elephants sighted.

Representations made to the Irrigation Department (ID) met with some understanding. On the one hand the environmentalists wanted the discharge of water into the Minneriya tank stopped, while on the other hand water was needed for irrigation. A dialogue was created between the environmental experts and the Irrigation Department to arrive at a compromise. A compromise was worked out and the water levels managed to some extent, and today we are fortunate enough to see the return of the Giants in MInneriya!   Coming soon….listen to Dr Pilapitiya tell us the story first hand…