Sri Lanka, a nation rich in natural beauty and biodiversity, is deeply committed to environmental preservation. Our commitment aligns with the principles of the UN Environmental Charter, and we are developing our own comprehensive environmental policy. This policy is designed not only to meet global environmental standards but also to reflect our unique cultural and spiritual heritage.
As a South Asian nation, Sri Lanka’s environmental policies are enriched by the profound influence of our Buddhist traditions. The teachings of the Buddha emphasize the intrinsic value of nature and the ethical responsibility of humans to protect the environment. The Karaneeya Metta Sutta, for instance, embodies this philosophy, urging unconditional love and compassion for all beings. Such teachings guide us to respect and cherish trees, animals, and the environment as essential to the balance of life.
An iconic example of this respect is the Buddha’s gratitude to the Bodhi tree, under which he attained enlightenment. This act of reverence underscores the Buddhist principle of showing gratitude and love to nature, a timeless lesson that remains relevant in the modern pursuit of sustainability.
The ruling party in Sri Lanka, the National People’s Power (NPP), has also demonstrated a strong commitment to environmental protection. Recognising the urgency of the climate crisis, they have incorporated environmental conservation into their manifesto, ensuring that this critical issue remains a priority in national development.
Model for other nations
By drawing upon our cultural heritage and aligning with global environmental frameworks, Sri Lanka is poised to serve as a model for other nations. Our policies reflect a harmonious blend of intellectual rigour and spiritual wisdom, emphasizing that environmental conservation is not merely a policy but a way of life.
Let us remember that our collective responsibility transcends borders. Together, we can ensure that our actions today will safeguard the planet for future generations.
As Sri Lanka navigates its economic recovery, we must remember that solutions to our crisis cannot come at the expense of our environment. Protecting our natural heritage is a responsibility that is deeply ingrained in our culture and, notably, enshrined in the NPP’s manifesto.
The Government is making commendable strides in upholding law and order, a crucial aspect that had seen significant decline in the past. What sets this Government apart is its unwavering commitment to environmental protection. Unlike previous administrations, this Government is taking firm action against those who harm the environment, with the support of the Police and the Attorney General’s Department. A new program has been initiated to strengthen this process, with the CID and the judicial system playing vital roles in its enforcement.
The Government has launched an ambitious initiative called “Clean Sri Lanka.” This project goes beyond environmental protection; it aims to rebuild and revitalise every sector of the country. It represents a holistic approach to national development, balancing economic growth with ecological preservation.
Sri Lanka’s geographical uniqueness is a source of immense pride. Despite being a tropical country, we are blessed with diverse climates—ranging from the warm coastal plains to the cool highlands. Our natural biodiversity is extraordinary, with iconic species like the elephant, the largest land animal, calling Sri Lanka home.
However, human activities, particularly illegal ones, have disrupted the delicate balance between humans and wildlife. As a result, elephants and other wildlife are increasingly encroaching into human settlements, creating challenges for both conservation and communities.
Human-elephant conflict
One of the most pressing issues we face in Sri Lanka today is the escalating conflict between humans and wildlife. The numbers are heartbreaking. In 2023, 181 human lives were lost due to human-elephant conflicts, and 484 elephants were also killed. Beyond this, environmental disasters like floods claimed the lives of over 190 persons.
The impact on agriculture is equally alarming. Wildlife such as monkeys, wild pigs, and peacocks have been causing significant damage to farms, leading to a loss of 30–40 percent of the country’s total harvest. This is a severe blow to an economy that heavily relies on agriculture, impacting both livelihoods and food security.
Recognising the gravity of these issues, the new Government has taken decisive steps to address them. For instance, a program has been initiated to control the reproduction of monkeys, which is a proactive measure to manage their number. Similarly, efforts are under way to guide elephants back to the jungle, their natural habitat, using various innovative methods.
The Government is also implementing projects like constructing electric fences and other protective barriers to mitigate the human-elephant conflict. These measures aim to create a safer environment for both humans and wildlife, ensuring coexistence while protecting our agricultural output and biodiversity.
Challenge for journalists
It is important to highlight the significant impact the human-wildlife conflict has had on Sri Lankan journalists. Tragically, one journalist lost his life a few years ago due to an elephant attack while reporting on these issues. This serves as a stark reminder of the risks journalists face while raising awareness about environmental challenges.
In response, initiatives like the UNDP’s program to train journalists on environmental reporting are crucial. These programs not only update journalists’ knowledge on environmental matters but also empower them to report accurately and effectively on issues such as biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.
Protecting our environment is key to maintaining the delicate balance of biodiversity. Take, for example, the Sinharaja Forest Reserve, Sri Lanka’s largest rainforest and one of the most significant in Asia. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a vital ecological treasure. If the biodiversity of Sinharaja is disrupted, it could have far-reaching consequences, not just for Sri Lanka but for the entire South Asian region.
By safeguarding our forests, wildlife, and ecosystems, we can ensure the balance of biodiversity and protect the livelihoods of future generations. Journalists have a crucial role to play in this journey, acting as the voice that informs and inspires action to preserve our natural heritage.
– The above are excerpts from a speech delivered by Nishantha Alwis – News Editor – SLRC at Media Meet held in Tamakur, Karnataka recently on ‘Environment and Media’. The meet was organised by the Karnataka Union of Working Journalists.
