The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) announced Sri Lanka as the recipient of the World Restoration Flagship Award for its outstanding work in accelerating the natural regeneration of mangroves at the Sixth Session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA).
This recognition underscores Sri Lanka’s crucial role in spearheading innovative solutions for ecosystem restoration, essential for sustaining lives and livelihoods across the country.
Sri Lanka’s Climate Change Office CEO Dr. Anil Jasinghe and Senior Lecturer at Wayamba University Prof. Sevvandi Jayakody accepted the UN Flagship Restoration Award on behalf of Sri Lanka. They were accompanied by Senior Presidential Advisor on Climate Change Ruwan Wijewardena and High Commissioner Kananathan. This award acknowledges Sri Lanka’s unwavering commitment to implementing effective and lasting strategies for mangrove ecosystem restoration.
UNEP’s Executive Director Inger Andersen commended Sri Lanka’s Accelerated Natural Regeneration of Mangroves as one of the most promising initiatives worldwide, selected from over 150 applications and backed by more than 70 Government endorsements. She highlighted Sri Lanka’s remarkable dedication to science-based and inclusive approaches, which have resulted in the significant revitalization of mangrove habitats on a vast scale.
Anderson emphasized that Sri Lanka’s success serves as an inspiration for other countries grappling with ecosystem restoration challenges. The country’s exemplary efforts in mangrove regeneration set a high standard for global restoration endeavours, demonstrating the profound impact of collaborative and sustainable restoration practices.
The Executive Director, while congratulating Sri Lanka on its remarkable efforts in regenerating mangroves, underscored that it serves as a valuable example for other countries to follow. Sri Lanka’s recognition as the UN Flagship Restoration Awardee reaffirms its position as a global leader in environmental stewardship and underscores the country’s vital role in advancing the objectives of the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. This prestigious honour reflects not only Sri Lanka’s dedication to environmental conservation but also its commitment to building a resilient and sustainable future for generations to come.
(dailynews.lk)
