4 June 2024 12:07 am Views - 96
Hayleys Fentons Limited celebrated the inauguration of the ‘Roots of Resilience’ biodiversity conservation programme.
The project began with the signing of the MoU on November 7, 2023. This significant endeavour was carried out in collaboration with the Government of Sri Lanka and the Department of Coast Conservation and Coastal Resource Management (CCCRMD).
The ‘Roots of Resilience’ biodiversity conservation programme aims to reinstate the vital mangrove ecosystem in the Bolgoda River. This river, a valuable natural treasure, was selected due to its ecological importance and the environmental threats it faces.
The project witnessed the planting of 1,000 mangrove saplings on the banks of the river, an initial step towards the project’s long-term goal of enriching biodiversity and supporting local communities.
“Mangroves are highly productive but extremely vulnerable ecosystems found in the intertidal zone of coastal environments, including lagoons. In Sri Lanka’s Coastal Zone and Coastal Resources Management Plan (CZ&CRMP), mangroves are listed as one of the most important coastal habitats.
Roots of Resilience is closely aligned with the country’s goals for mangrove protection and restoration, as replanting schemes are one of the CZ&CRMP’s core actions. Mangroves act as large filters, removing pollutants, excess nutrients, and sediment from inland municipal and industrial wastewater as well as storm water runoff. The planting of 1000 mangrove saplings will have a major positive impact on the function of the habitat,” said Eng. R.A.S. Ranawaka, Director General of CCCRMD.
“As this initiative also combats climate change effects on the habitat, it will improve ecosystem services, providing additional benefits to local fishermen communities through increased natural production. Community participation, public awareness, and close monitoring of progress are critical for the success and sustainability of the project’s five-year plan.”
Expressing his views, Hasith Prematillake, Managing Director of Hayleys Fentons Limited, highlighted the initiative’s dual purpose. “By undertaking this initiative, we wish to take meaningful action to benefit our valuable local environment while contributing to the global effort in preserving biodiversity and combating climate change, leaving a positive impact for the future generation.”
The programme aligns with the long-term protection and preservation of biodiversity pledged by Hayleys Fentons Limited and parent company Hayleys PLC through its ESG roadmap, the Hayleys Lifecode.