Project
Reforestation and Biodiversity Enhancement in Sigiriya Area
Discover how our project is contributing to the preservation of Sri Lanka's biodiversity through research and collaboration.
The verdant landscapes and rich biodiversity of Sri Lanka have long been recognized as invaluable natural treasures, nurturing unique ecosystems and providing vital services to both local communities and the planet as a whole. However, the ecological balance has been under threat in recent decades due to rapid population growth and development, resulting in the decline of forest cover. The need for urgent and strategic conservation efforts has never been more pressing.
With a forest cover of approximately 29.9%, or 1,933,000 hectares, Sri Lanka's forested landscapes are invaluable reservoirs of biodiversity, carbon sequestration, and watershed management. Within this expanse, 8.6% (approximately 167,000 hectares) represents the most biodiverse and ecologically critical form of forest – the primary forest. However, the alarming rate of change witnessed between 1990 and 2000, with an average annual loss of 26,800 hectares of forest, underscores the gravity of the situation. As these forests recede, so do the vital services they provide – clean air, water regulation, and habitat for countless species.
This project aims to address the challenges posed by deforestation, promote eco-tourism, and contribute to mitigating climate change. By involving tourists in tree planting activities, utilizing native and endemic plant species, and focusing on carbon sequestration, the Reforestation and Biodiversity Enhancement project seeks to restore the region's ecological balance and preserve its natural heritage.
This project is supported by Aliya Resort & Spa
Events
Blogs
25
Oct 2023
Thema Talks - Greening Sri Lanka - Strategies & Successes in Waste Management
‘Thema Talks’ is an initiative of Thema Collection, which aims to provide a platform for experts and practitioners to discuss sustainability-related topics and share their knowledge and experiences. In addition, we focus on creating a platform for collaborations and partnerships among different stakeholders to address sustainability challenges and achieving common goals.
The session focuses on the overall waste situation in Sri Lanka, including aspects such as the amount of waste generated, types of waste, existing management methods, and key issues. and any inspiring success stories, in projects which include proper waste management practices.
29
Jul 2023
Thema Talks - Supported Employment-Fostering Diversity & Inclusion in the Workplac
‘Thema Talks’ is an initiative of Thema Collection, which aims to provide a platform for experts and practitioners to discuss sustainability-related topics and share their knowledge and experiences. In addition, we focus on creating a platform for collaborations and partnerships among different stakeholders to address sustainability challenges and achieving common goals.
The session focused on promoting inclusivity, the challenges faced, and inspiring success stories, especially those involving projects related to persons with disabilities.
26
Jul 2023
Thema Talks – Sri Lanka’s Biodiversity in a Global Context
‘Thema Talks’ is an initiative of Thema Collection, which aims to provide a platform for experts and practitioners to discuss sustainability-related topics and share their knowledge and experiences. In addition, we focus on creating a platform for collaborations and partnerships among different stakeholders to address sustainability challenges and achieving common goals.This session focused on exploring Sri Lanka's biodiversity, emphasizing its importance and addressing the threats it faces. It also serves as a platform to share success stories in biodiversity conservation within the country.
14
Jun 2023
Thema Talks - Driving the Green Building Revolution
‘Thema Talks’ is an initiative of Thema Collection, which aims to provide a platform for experts and practitioners to discuss sustainability-related topics and share their knowledge and experiences. In addition, we focus on creating a platform for collaborations and partnerships among different stakeholders to address sustainability challenges and achieving common goals.
The session on 'Driving the Green Building Revolution' focusses on the green building concept, process and its importance. In addition, the session focusses on sharing experiences, expertise and success stories.
17
May 2023
Thema Talks: Partnerships for Sustainability
‘Thema Talks’ is an initiative of Thema Collection, which aims to provide a platform for experts and practitioners to discuss sustainability-related topics and share their knowledge and experiences. In addition, we focus on creating a platform for collaborations and partnerships among different stakeholders to address sustainability challenges and achieving common goals.
The session on 'Partnerships for Sustainability' focused on the importance of partnerships for achieving sustainable tourism and sharing experiences, expertise and success stories.
17
Feb 2022
Naturalist Training Workshop II
Sri Lanka, an island nestled in the Indian Ocean, boasts remarkable biodiversity, earning its status as one of the 36 globally recognized biodiversity hotspots, alongside India's Western Ghats. Despite this natural wealth, the past decade has witnessed a surge in threats to this diversity, primarily due to human activities such as deforestation, encroachment, excessive pesticide use, and the pervasive impacts of climate change. Additionally, a significant challenge lies in the lack of awareness regarding the diverse species inhabiting the island and the importance of their conservation.
To address these pressing issues, a workshop was organized at Aliya Resort & Spa Sigiriya in Kandy. The primary aim was to enhance the awareness and skills of the youth, nurturing them into proficient naturalists for the tourism industry. Equipping them with knowledge, this initiative empowers them to share invaluable insights with both foreign and local guests, as well as members of local communities. By fostering a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka's biodiversity, these efforts contribute significantly to its preservation.
25
Feb 2021
Naturalist Training Workshop I
Sri Lanka, an island nestled in the Indian Ocean, boasts remarkable biodiversity, earning its status as one of the 36 globally recognized biodiversity hotspots, alongside India's Western Ghats. Despite this natural wealth, the past decade has witnessed a surge in threats to this diversity, primarily due to human activities such as deforestation, encroachment, excessive pesticide use, and the pervasive impacts of climate change. Additionally, a significant challenge lies in the lack of awareness regarding the diverse species inhabiting the island and the importance of their conservation.
To address these pressing issues, a workshop was organized at Mountbatten Bungalow in Kandy. The primary aim was to enhance the awareness and skills of the youth, nurturing them into proficient naturalists for the tourism industry. Equipping them with knowledge, this initiative empowers them to share invaluable insights with both foreign and local guests, as well as members of local communities. By fostering a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka's biodiversity, these efforts contribute significantly to its preservation.
Sri Lanka's Proposal to Export Endangered Toque Macaques Sparks Controversy
Sri Lanka’s Minister of Agriculture, Mahinda Amaraweera, announced the government’s consideration of a proposal from a Chinese company to export 100,000 toque macaque monkeys for 1,000 zoos in China. However, environmentalists and cultural advocates have raised concerns, pointing out that toque macaques are listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List, and Sri Lanka is their natural habitat. Furthermore, monkeys hold cultural significance in Sri Lanka, particularly within Hindu mythology, where Hanuman, the monkey god, is a revered figure. Buddhists also oppose the mass export, as it conflicts with their principles of compassion for all living beings. Many Sri Lankans are skeptical of the claim that the monkeys are meant for zoos, fearing they might be used in scientific experiments or for food, given that toque macaques are often traded internationally for research purposes.
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Galgamuwe Chandi: One-Tusked Elephant Dies After Tusker Fight
"Galgamuwe Chandi," a well-known elephant with a single tusk, was found dead in the Kaduru Wewa area of Ehetuwewa, Kurunegala. Wildlife officials believe that Chandi's death resulted from severe injuries sustained in a fight with another tusker. Investigations have shown that his front right leg was badly wounded during the altercation, which may have contributed to his passing.
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Protecting Sri Lanka's Leopard - A Call for Urgent Action
The tragic death of another Sri Lankan leopard caught in a snare in Maskeliya highlights the growing crisis for this critically important species. As Sri Lanka’s only apex predator, the leopard plays a crucial role in balancing the ecosystem, controlling populations of crop-raiding animals like wild boar, which benefit agriculture, and drawing wildlife tourism that supports the economy. Despite their importance, the number of leopards falling victim to human-induced threats, such as illegal snares, continues to rise. Nine leopards have already died this year under similar circumstances, a situation made worse by the insufficient resources, delayed response times, and limited number of wildlife veterinarians available to save them.
Protecting Sri Lanka’s Biodiversity | Thema Talks
On the 26th of July 2023, Thema Talks hosted its third session, shining a spotlight on “Sri Lanka’s Biodiversity in a Global Context” This illuminating session dove deep into the rich biodiversity of Sri Lanka, its immense importance, the threats it faces, and a compelling solution in the form of nature-based tourism. With insights from notable speakers, including Mr. Ashan Karunananda and Mr. Medhisha Gunawardena, the session underscored the urgency of biodiversity conservation and its potential to drive sustainable economic opportunities. Additionally, the session spotlighted Thema Collection’s vital role in safeguarding Sri Lanka’s biodiversity through the BERI Initiative.
Sustainability’s Path: Thema Talks’ Green Building Journey
Step into the world of sustainability and join us on a transformative journey as Thema Collection proudly presents the second session of ‘Thema Talks’—a dynamic platform where experts and practitioners gather to delve deep into the realm of sustainability. On the 14th of July 2023, we explored the captivating topic of ‘Driving the Green Building Revolution’, unveiling the power of eco-conscious architecture and its vital role in shaping a greener future.