In a significant step towards strengthening coastal ecosystem conservation, the Ministry of Environment will gazette eight mangrove sites in the Puttalam District as new protected forest reserves on July 27, coinciding with the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem.
The newly protected areas cover a total extent of 162.72 hectares and form part of the national "Let Mangroves Thrive" initiative, which aims to enhance the conservation and sustainable management of Sri Lanka's mangrove ecosystems.
The declaration is expected to bolster efforts to safeguard the country's approximately 12,500 hectares of mangrove forests, which provide critical ecological services, including shoreline protection, carbon sequestration, biodiversity conservation, and support for fisheries and coastal livelihoods.
Sri Lanka is home to 11 identified true mangrove species, making the protection of these habitats vital for preserving the nation's rich coastal biodiversity. Environmental authorities note that mangroves also play a crucial role in mitigating the impacts of climate change by acting as natural buffers against storm surges and coastal erosion.
The gazetting of the eight sites reflects the Government's continued commitment to conserving sensitive ecosystems and promoting sustainable environmental stewardship. Officials say the move will strengthen legal protection for these mangrove forests while supporting national and international conservation objectives.
The announcement coincides with the annual observance of the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem, marked globally on July 26 to raise awareness of the importance of mangroves and the need to protect these unique coastal habitats for future generations.
