Sri Lanka receives esteemed UN Award for Mangrove Ecosystem Restoration Excellence

At the 6th Assembly of the United Nations Environment (UNEA), Sri Lanka was honoured with the prestigious World Restoration Flagship Award by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) for its remarkable efforts in accelerating the natural revival of mangroves. This recognition highlights Sri Lanka’s pivotal role in pioneering innovative solutions for ecosystem rejuvenation, crucial for ensuring the well-being of communities across the island nation.

Accepting the UN Flagship Restoration Award on behalf of Sri Lanka were Dr. Anil Jasinghe, CEO of Sri Lanka’s Climate Change Office, and Professor Sevvandi Jayakody, Senior Lecturer at Wayamba University. They were joined by Ruwan Wijewardena, Senior Presidential Advisor on Climate Change, and High Commissioner Kananathan. This accolade acknowledges Sri Lanka’s steadfast dedication to implementing effective and sustainable strategies for the restoration of mangrove ecosystems.

Inger Andersen, Executive Director of UNEP, lauded Sri Lanka’s Accelerated Natural Regeneration of Mangroves as one of the most promising initiatives globally, chosen from a pool of over 150 submissions and endorsed by more than 70 governments. She highlighted Sri Lanka’s exceptional commitment to employing science-driven and inclusive approaches, resulting in the significant revitalisation of mangrove habitats on a substantial scale.

Anderson emphasised that Sri Lanka’s achievements serve as a source of inspiration for nations worldwide grappling with ecosystem restoration challenges. The country’s exemplary endeavors in mangrove regeneration set a benchmark for global restoration initiatives, showcasing the transformative impact of collaborative and sustainable restoration practices.

While congratulating Sri Lanka on its outstanding achievements in mangrove regeneration, the Executive Director underscored that it sets a valuable precedent for other nations to emulate. Sri Lanka’s recognition as the UN Flagship Restoration Awardee reaffirms its status as a global frontrunner in environmental conservation and underscores its pivotal role in advancing the objectives of the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. This prestigious accolade not only reflects Sri Lanka’s unwavering commitment to environmental preservation but also its dedication to forging a resilient and sustainable future for generations to come.