2nd multi-stakeholder consultation on developing guidelines for coral reef restoration in Sri Lanka was organized by Marine Environment Protection Authority of Sri Lanka in collaboration with SLYCAN Trust on 6th August 2019. 

The consultation focused on addressing the key aspects related to coral restoration in Sri Lanka, and addressing challenges faced in implementing technically sound coral protection initiatives in the country. 

“It is important for coral restoration activities in Sri Lanka to be implemented in Sri Lanka with expert technical guidance. When projects are implemented without sound technical guidance, it leads to adverse impacts on the coral ecosystem,” said General Manager of MEPA, Dr. Terney Pradeep Kumara.

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He highlighted that the guidelines are not intended to create restrictions for those interested in environment protection to contribute to coral reef protection, but that it is with the intention to ensure that projects implemented are better streamlined and technically sound. 

“The development of guidelines should not lead to restricting different parties in engaging in environmental protection. Instead, they need to contribute t streamlining activities related to coral restoration which do not have adverse impacts on the marine eco-system,” he said. 

Among elements discussed at the consultation are criteria for site selection, need for technical expertise in developing project proposals related to coral restoration, effective monitoring and evaluation of coral restoration, and community engagement in coral restoration. The participants highlighted also the need for ownership of projects by coastal communities, creating awareness and building awareness among the communities on the benefits of coral reefs and the need for their restoration. 

The participants discussed also the importance of ensuring that communities have a sense of ownership of the activities related to coral restoration, which will help the sustainability of the restoration efforts, and reduce negative anthropological activities on the coral reefs. 

The guidelines development activities are conducted with the contribution of lead authorities related to coral restoration in the  in Sri Lanka including the Department of Wildlife of Sri Lanka, the Coast Conservation Department of Sri Lanka, the Coast Guard of Sri Lanka, the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency, and other key stakeholders working on coastal ecosystem protection and restoration in Sri Lanka. 

For further information kindly contact Vositha Wijenayake/ Thiruni Marambe on 0117 446 238 or via email at [email protected]