Sri Lanka has launched an ambitious mangrove restoration plan to boost its mangrove forest cover by more than 50% over the next decade, aiming to restore over 12,000 hectares of vital coastal ecosystems. The country currently has approximately 24,000 hectares of mangroves, but urban development, coastal erosion, and deforestation have significantly reduced these areas. The government’s restoration plan will involve replanting and protecting degraded mangrove forests, focusing on coastal regions that are most vulnerable to climate change impacts. In addition to government efforts, local communities, environmental NGOs, and international organizations are collaborating on this project, providing both expertise and funding to help meet the restoration goals.
The expanded mangrove forests will have multiple environmental and socio-economic benefits. Mangroves act as natural buffers, reducing the impact of storms, tsunamis, and flooding by stabilizing coastlines and absorbing storm surges. They also provide crucial habitats for marine species, such as fish and crabs, which are important for local fisheries. Moreover, mangroves sequester large amounts of carbon, making them a key tool in mitigating climate change by acting as carbon sinks. The restoration will also improve water quality by filtering pollutants, benefitting both marine ecosystems and local communities who rely on clean water sources. This initiative will not only help protect Sri Lanka’s biodiversity but will also improve the livelihoods of coastal communities by ensuring sustainable resources and reducing the risks posed by climate-related disasters. More