Life style

Meaningful Area -based Conservation in Sri Lanka

Published

4 hours ago

2024/10/13

Flocks of flamingos over a protected wetland, highlighting the importance of effective area-based conservation in safeguarding critical habitats for migratory species

Nations Trust WNPS Monthly Lecture

Unravelling the Jargon of OECMs and ESAs

By Prof. Sandun Perera and Prof. Sevvandi Jayakody

Thursday 24th October 2024, 6 pm, Jasmine Hall, BMICH

Sri Lanka’s journey in declaring Protected Areas (PAs) is deeply rooted in history, dating back to the concept of “Abhaya Bhoomi,” where the sanctity of life was revered. From hunting grounds to vital catchments for irrigation projects, the objectives behind these PAs have evolved. But does the current network of PAs truly represent the incredible diversity of Sri Lanka’s ecosystems?

In the face of the triple planetary crisis — biodiversity loss, climate change, and pollution — the world is shifting towards evidence-based decision-making and inclusive models for conservation. This month’s lecture delves into the tools and strategies necessary for Sri Lanka to meet global conservation goals.

: Vital mangroves: protecting biodiversity and strengthening coastal resilience

: Endemic birds, Sri Lanka grey hornbill rely on Sri Lanka’s unique ecosystems for survival. Initiatives like OECMs and ESAs play a crucial role in protecting these fragile habitats

: Shrinking habitats are putting immense pressure on elephants, forcing them to venture into human settlements and leading to negative human-elephant interactions

: Capturing the beauty of Sri Lanka’s diverse ecosystems, this serene river is a reminder of the critical importance of preserving our natural heritage

Thirty years after the Rio Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), Sri Lanka, along with global partners, has embraced the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. The ambitious target three aims to conserve 30% of the world’s terrestrial, inland, coastal, and marine areas by 2030 through protected areas and Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECMs).

A delicate bala nce: even the smallest species benefit from Sri Lanka’s well-managed conservation areas, where biodiversity is protected from environmental threats

Prof. Sandun Perera and Prof. Sevvandi Jayakody will take us back to a pivotal moment since the Covid-19 pandemic when nearly 100 scientists in Sri Lanka worked with a novel approach and identified 139 Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESAs) beyond the current PA network. Discover how a three-tiered system of PAs, OECMs, and ESAs can lead Sri Lanka toward a meaningful and sustainable conservation strategy.

Prof. Sevvandi Jayakody holds a BSc. (Hons.) Degree in Zoology from the University of Kelaniya, a Postgraduate Diploma in Wildlife Management and Conservation from the Wildlife Institute of India, a PhD in Zoology from the University of Aberdeen. She has conducted post-doctoral research at the SCIRO, Australia, the James Hutton Institute, Scotland and at the IDRC, Canada.

In 1997, she joined the Department of Wildlife Conservation as an Assistant Director and currently serves as a Senior Lecturer at the Wayamba University of Sri Lanka. Prof Sevvandi is a General Committee Member of the WNPS

Prof. Sandun J. Perera is a leading expert in Biogeography and Environmental Conservation at Sabaragamuwa University, Sri Lanka, with over 30 years of field research experience across Sri Lanka and South Africa. His work spans biodiversity inventory, macroecology, and conservation biogeography.

A prolific author of books and research papers, Sandun currently serves as the Programme Coordinator for the IUCN in Sri Lanka, attempting to reduce the gap between research, applications, and policy in environmental conservation.

Be part of the momentum for a better future.

The monthly lecture of the WNPS is supported by Nations Trust Bank is open free for members and non members.

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Fashion

Thilini Kumari brings fame and name to Sri Lanka

Published

1 week ago

2024/10/6

Thilina Walpola

Thilini Kumari Shehara , who represented Sri Lanka won the first place at the prestigious Miss International 2024 beauty pageant held in Indonesia at the scenic Island of Bali.

She competed with many contestants from 20 counties around the world. Known for her acting prowess Thilini has been the winner of many beauty pageants, in Sri Lanka. Hailing from Kandy, Pilimatalawe, she holds a degree in Bachelor of Arts from the University of Kelaniya. She has a string of many qualifications and now she reads for her PhD in Philosophy in Education.

Thilini Kumari’s journey from clinching the many prestigious titles, her illustrious career today is nothing short of inspiring. Through her hard work dedication and unwavering faith, she has carved a path that has not only defined her success but has also inspired countless others.

In this interview, she reflects on the highlights and challenges that have shaped her remarkable journey. An actress, TV star and a brand ambassadors for several prestigious brands. Thilini was also the winner of Miss Tourism in 2024.

A multifaceted personality Thilini, worked hard to lose weight, get in shape, improve her speech and build confidence.

With her mesmerizing and impeccable sense of style, Thilini never let the limelight define her.

When asked about her , Thilini said she will continue with her studies but will use her platform to advocate numerous social causes and programmes on women’s empowerment. Her dignified presence and strong moral compass have made her an enduring icon of compassion and determination

This sizzling beauty with brains stunned the audience in an stunning evening gown for the national dress parade.

An old girl of Mahamaya Central College, she is a beauty with brain. She is very much grateful to SriLankan Airlines for sponsoring an air ticket to Indonesia.

Life style

Road to Give 2024- global movement for local impact

Published

1 week ago

2024/10/6

Thilina Walpola

We’re thrilled to announce the return of Marriott’s Road to Give! Now in its 10th year, this initiative brings together associates, guests, and well-wishers from across the Asia Pacific to move for a greater cause said a press release.

Weligama Bay Marriott Resort & Spa, supports SOS Children’s Village in Galle through a special walk and beach run. Join us as we raise funds to enrich the lives of these deserving children said a release.

Fashion

ADIEU GALADARI

Published

1 week ago

2024/10/6

Thilina Walpola

From (Left to Right) Priyadharshana, Anuradha, Zareena, Sampath, Trudy, Upali and Lalith

The Galadari Hotel hosted a cocktail bidding adieu to its successful 40 years in the industry as the hotel, hopes to come back under its new brand name Radisson Blue Galadari.

The grand cocktail was hosted by the General Manager Sampath Siriwardene was a way of saying ‘Thank You’ to all those who patronized the hotel and all those who contributed towards the hotel over the years. There was glitz, glamour and an unforgettable experience for those who were present.

The guests saw a vibrant champagne and wine reception combined with delicious canapies and live entertainment by popular violinist Roger Menez.While the grand décor of the spacious ballroom adorned with regal chandeliers and other ornate props were undeniably captivating, it was the heart felt speech made by the General Manager Sampath Siriwardena that truly stole the evening.

The invitees present included guests, business partners and members of the media. The hotel which is currently undergoing renovations was established in October 1984, under the name Galadari Meridian for a period of 11 years. The property then took the brand name Marriot for a further period of two years to thereafter becoming a stand-alone property for the longest period of 27 years.

After the renovations are completed the hotel hopes to create new waves in the hospitality industry. Complete with its new identity Radisson Blu Galadari will offer a better and promising era that will dawn for the property.