Sri Lanka has launched an ambitious mangrove restoration project with the goal of expanding its mangrove forests by more than 50% over the next decade. The initiative, which is part of the country’s broader environmental strategy, aims to restore degraded coastal ecosystems, enhance biodiversity, and combat climate change by increasing the mangrove cover from 40,000 hectares to over 60,000 hectares. Mangroves play a critical role in protecting coastal communities from storm surges, preventing soil erosion, and supporting marine life, making their restoration essential for both environmental and economic stability.
The restoration plan will involve the planting of millions of mangrove saplings along Sri Lanka’s coastline, which is vulnerable to the effects of climate change, such as rising sea levels and extreme weather. Local communities will be engaged in the effort, not only to ensure the long-term success of the restoration but also to provide sustainable livelihoods. The project is supported by both the government and international conservation organizations, with funding aimed at building resilience against natural disasters and strengthening coastal ecosystems. This large-scale restoration effort sets an example for other nations, demonstrating the potential of nature-based solutions to mitigate climate change and protect vulnerable coastal regions. More