In response to the growing need for environmental awareness and conservation, the Centre for Environmental Studies and Sustainable Development (CESSD) of The Open University of Sri Lanka, in collaboration with the Department of Coast Conservation and Coastal Resource Management and Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, organized a workshop and Mangrove Tree Planting Program on 26 September 2025 at Ambakandawila Beach, Chilaw. This initiative aimed to promote coastal ecosystem restoration, community engagement, and sustainable environmental practices. It also engaged university students, academic staff, and stakeholders in hands-on conservation efforts while promoting knowledge-sharing on the ecological value of mangroves and sustainable coastal ecosystem management.
A workshop on Mangrove Conservation was held at the Lanka Mangrove Museum, with the participation of 50 students from the Open University of Sri Lanka (OUSL) and other universities. The workshop featured six distinguished resource persons, and a series of technical sessions covered topics including:
Ecological Significance and Restoration Strategies of Mangrove Species in Sri Lanka : Prof. Roshan Perera Professor in Botany The Open University of Sri Lanka
Leveraging GIS and Remote Sensing Technologies for Effective Mangrove Ecosystem Management: Prof. D. D. G. L. Dahanayake Professor in Zoology The Open University of Sri Lanka.
Fostering Community Participation for Sustainable Mangrove Conservation: Dr. Kalinga Padmalal Former Senior Lecturer The Open University of Sri Lanka.
Assessing and Mitigating Pollution Impacts on Mangrove Ecosystem Health: Dr. M. G. Y. L. Mahagamage Director CESSD – The Open University of Sri Lanka
The Role of the Coast Conservation Department in Protecting Sri Lanka’s Mangrove Ecosystems: Ms. Maduni Fernando Assistant Director CC & CMRD – District Office – Chilaw
The Role of the Lanka Mangrove Museum in Protecting Sri Lanka’s Mangrove Ecosystems: Mr. Douglas Thesera Director Lanka Mangrove Museum
The Mangrove Tree Planting Program was successfully conducted with the participation of 150 individuals, including 50 students, 10 OUSL staff members, 50 Cinnamon Hotels staff, and 10 CCD staff. A total of 500 mangrove plants were planted during the event, with the species primarily comprising Rhizophorus sp. along with various mangrove associates. The plants and necessary facilities for the program were generously provided through the support of Cinnamon Hotels and the Department of Coast Conservation and Coastal Resource Management (CCD), whose contributions made the event a resounding success.
