Professor Sevvandi Jayakody, a leading academic and researcher in coastal ecosystem conservation, has been appointed as the Chairperson of the Marine Environment Protection Council, which functions under the Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA).

The appointment letter was officially handed over on Friday (22) by Environment Minister Dr. Dammika Patabandi at his Ministry.

Confirming the appointment, the Environment Ministry Media spokesperson said: “Professor Jayakody’s appointment marks an important step in strengthening Sri Lanka’s commitment to protecting the marine environment. Her wealth of academic expertise, combined with over two decades of national and international experience in marine and coastal ecosystem management, will bring strong leadership to the council.”

Professor Jayakody currently serves as the Chair Professor of Aquaculture and Fisheries at the Wayamba University of Sri Lanka. She holds a BSc (Hons) in Zoology from the University of Kelaniya, a Postgraduate Diploma in Wildlife Conservation and Management from the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), and a PhD in Zoology from the University of Aberdeen, UK.

Her research focuses on coastal ecosystems, the impact of human activities, policy and governance frameworks, and the restoration of coastal ecosystems. She also serves as the Chairperson of the National Mangrove Experts Committee, and is a member of the National Environmental Council and the National Blue Carbon Task Force.

The spokesperson added: “Sri Lanka faces growing challenges from marine pollution and climate-related pressures. Under Professor Jayakody’s guidance, the Marine Environment Protection Council will be instrumental in shaping effective strategies for prevention, control, and sustainable management.”

Professor Jayakody has represented Sri Lanka in international environmental conventions, including CITES, the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), and the Commonwealth Blue Charter. She has also served as the Ramsar focal point for Sri Lanka for more than a decade.

The Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA), which falls under the purview of the Ministry of Environment, carries the mandate of preventing, controlling, and managing marine environmental pollution. The newly strengthened Marine Environment Protection Council will provide expert recommendations and guidance to ensure these responsibilities are effectively carried out.

By Ifham Nizam ✍️