Sri Lanka

This book presents the economic justification for including mangrove rehabilitation and restoration efforts in current tsunami reconstruction projects in Sri Lanka. The results provide a solid platform for the decision makers to select the best development strategies for the tsunami-affected communities by comparing the results provided by this study with the value of alternative uses of mangroves in these areas.

This was prepared as part of a comprehensive, concerted and integrated effort at a national level to make a significant headway in Sri Lanka 's marine turtle conservation. The publication aims to guide marine turtle conservation in Sri Lanka and covers strategies for in-situ and ex-situ conservation, research and monitoring, law enforcement, public awareness and education and community participation in conservation and eco-tourism.

This series provides extensive details on the various issues that need to be considered in the planning of a system of marine and coastal protected areas, from legislation and administrative frameworks to key habitats and species, resource use and environmental problems. Each report concludes with a recommendations section which includes a summary of coastal and marine areas considered to be priorities for protection.

Sri Lanka has one of the oldest traditions of irrigation in the world. The economy and human settlements of early Sri Lankan society were organized around the ancient water tank (water storage reservoir) irrigation systems. These traditional tank systems thus form a vital component of both the natural and manmade landscape in Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka holds great potential for developing payment for environmental services (PES) and environmental service markets. However, this is a relatively new concept, and improving awareness and building institutional capacity remain a top priority and challenge.

This paper presents the findings of a series of biodiversity assessments conducted in the Anawilundawa wetland sanctuary from September 2003-January 2004. Based on these finding, recommendations have been made on how to manage the water in the wetland, establish a biodiversity monitoring programme, implement awareness raising activities and to promote regulated ecotourism in the area, in close collaboration with the local communities.

This publication will serve as a concise guide to the Sinharaja rainforest, by providing tips and advice to visitors, and information with regards to its cultural importance. Descriptions and checklists have also been provided for some of the plant and animal species found in this rainforest.

Taxonomic research on the faunal groups of Sri Lanka has undergone tremendous growth since the 1990s, resulting in the discovery and scientific description of several new species. This publication is intended to collate and present updated information on the status of taxonomy, research and conservation of different groups of fauna in Sri Lanka in order to facilitate and enhance research, education, awareness and conservation activities.