In the serene coastal stretches of Sri Lanka, amidst verdant forests and thriving mangroves, DIMO’s environmental initiatives bloom like blossoms of hope for a sustainable future. DIMO’s sustainability agenda for 2030 envisions a resilient business, resilient communities, and a conserved living planet. Anchored firmly within this visionary framework, DIMO’s environmental pillar aims for a 1:1 restoration ratio by 2030, catalysing a wave of restoration initiatives that breathe life back into ecosystems.
Turtle conservation
Since its inception in 2012, the Panama Turtle Conservation project has been a beacon of hope for endangered sea turtle species along Sri Lanka’s coastal havens that span over 3km. Partnering with project implementation partner Wildlife & Ocean Resource Conservation (WORC), DIMO has contributed to protecting over 1314 nests, incubating 153,815 eggs and releasing 127,488 hatchlings, fostering a survival rate of 75%-89% as the project funding partner. From loggerhead to green and olive ridley sea turtles, this project has become an important nesting ground, making a remarkable contribution to marine biodiversity. This not only bolsters sea turtle populations but also engages local communities as stewards of conservation, transforming illegal egg collectors into caretakers. A combination of ongoing awareness initiatives and active participation in conservation efforts has empowered local communities to become champions for their environment, evolving from mere spectators to proactive stewards. Today this has grown to a project that MAS Intimates and Commercial Bank teaming up for more impactful efforts to extend conservation areas.
Life to reef coral restoration
In the depths of Rumassala Bonavista Reef’s despair after El-Nino events, DIMO’s ‘Life to Reef’ project, in collaboration with WORC, breathed life back into coral ecosystems. Restoring 30 coral species across a 3.5-acre area, the company completed its role as the only funding partner recently. Standing 10-15cm tall, these coral species have blossomed into vibrant colonies, creating a haven for a dazzling array of marine life. The project reinvigorated marine biodiversity, heralding a resurgence of fish species to a staggering 250. In the post-restoration stage, the project witnessed an impressive increase of butterflyfish species to 13. Furthermore, the return of turtle species like Green Turtles, Loggerhead Turtles, and Hawksbill Turtles underscores the project’s success, further enhancing marine biodiversity in the reef. In the social context restoration initiatives convert community members engaged in illegal fishing into more sustainable livelihoods, ensuring the protection of vital reef ecosystems. The restoration project has spurred a rise in tourism, creating a boom for local businesses. Opportunities such as snorkel kit rentals and food stalls tailored to tourists have emerged, providing avenues for income generation and enhancing the community’s economic well-being.
Kanneliya forest restoration
Teaming up with Biodiversity Sri Lanka (BSL), the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), and other corporate partners, DIMO contributed to the ‘Life’ forest restoration program which has rejuvenated a 12-hectare patch within Kanneliya Forest Reserve.
The project has witnessed a resurgence in butterfly diversity, with 22 species recorded at the restoration site. By planting over 18,000 native species, curbing invasive flora, establishing native plant nurseries, and implementing soil conservation methods and plant protection techniques, the project has not only enriched biodiversity but also mitigated natural hazards such as floods and landslides for local communities. Today DIMO acts as the fertiliser partner for the project while further strengthening the reforestation effort.
Galle Mangrove Project
Embarking on a recent collaboration with MAS Holdings and Galle Conservation Society (GCS), the Galle mangrove restoration initiative stands as a bulwark against climate change while aiming to enhance urban wildlife and marine biodiversity by restoring mangrove habitats across 18 hectares in Galle. Bolstering coastal ecosystems, the initiative has planted 2,000 mangrove saplings, encompassing five diverse species, across Kapu Ela and the Dutch Canal in Galle.
This project is set to empower communities through income-generating mechanisms, establishing nurseries for mangrove plants, and promoting ornamental fish breeding around the area. The benefits of the Galle Mangrove Project extend far beyond restoring coastal ecosystems. These vital mangrove forests act as nurseries for fish populations, directly supporting local fisheries and creating economic opportunities for countless individuals. The project’s vision extends to education, with plans to transform the area into a hub for learning about conservation and sustainability. This ensures long-term environmental benefits and empowers future generations to become stewards of their surroundings.
Aligning with global conservation efforts these projects directly contribute to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 14: Life Below Water, SDG 15: Life on Land, SDG 13: Climate Action, and SDG 17: Strengthening the means of implementation and revitalise the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development.
DIMO’s environmental projects go beyond just restoring ecosystems; they tell a powerful story of resilience and collaboration. As the world grapples with sustainability challenges, DIMO’s initiatives illuminate pathways toward a future where humans and nature can thrive together.
