Workshop on blue carbon ecosystems and biodiversity held at SLNS Barana

The Sri Lanka Navy, in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, hosted a two-day workshop focused on enhancing knowledge about Blue Carbon Ecosystems and the biodiversity of the Mannar Landscape. The event took place on 25th and 26th October 2024, at SLNS Barana.

Under the guidance of Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera, the Sri Lanka Navy played its part in a programme focused on enhancing understanding of Blue Carbon Ecosystems and Biodiversity. Key topics included Mangrove Flora Identification, the Legal Framework for Mangrove Conservation, and the Importance of Seagrasses and Saltmarshes. The programme also offered practical insights with guidelines on Mangrove Restoration and concluded with a field visit to the mangrove forest near Modaragam Aru.

The knowledge and skills gained during this workshop are expected to significantly enhance the Sri Lanka Navy's ability to contribute to the conservation of the nation’s valuable marine resources. This initiative underscores the importance of collaboration between government agencies and military personnel in safeguarding Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity.

The workshop featured technical support from esteemed experts, including Prof. Sevvandi Jayakody at Wayamba University of Sri Lanka representing the National Expert Committee on Mangrove Conservation, along with Dr. Manoj Prasanna, a recognized mangrove specialist and member of the same committee. The Deputy Area Commander Northwestern Naval Area, Commodore Manjula Hewa Battage and officers and sailors from the Command were also present on this occasion.