Integrated Eco-cultural Resource Management Project, Sigiriya
The ultimate project aim is to develop a model with joint participation of local communities for the sustainable management of eco-cultural resources possessing the capacity to expand into other Dry Zone environments as well. This programme will serve as a case study for the development of a strategy for local community participation in eco-cultural resource management in Sri Lanka. Such working models are notably absent today while serving as barriers to local community involvement as co-partners in local resource management.
This programme will provide opportunities to develop skills and serve to raise awareness and self-motivation in providing protective measures and non-destructive sustainable use of local resources. The project also envisions possible nature-based non-destructive enterprise development.
Zoological expedition in Sigiriya wildlife sanctuary and World Heritage Site area
A zoological study on vertebrate fauna and selected invertebrate groups is presently being carried out for the preparation of a Conservation Action Plan for the wildlife resource in the area. Preliminary studies reveal that the area supports over 80% of the Dry Zone fauna of the country. Of these, approximately 50% are evidently nationally threatened from an increased human impact on the environment.
Education and Awareness Programmes
A wide range of education and awareness programmes was launched to promote the conservation of environmental and cultural resources in Sri Lanka. Seminars, workshops, field camps, expeditions and lectures were held for different stakeholders focusing on special attention to local communities and school children. A radio-based Environmental Education Programme, 'Sisaraya' (the environment) was launched in collaboration with the Education Service of the Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation and Turtle Conservation Project. This programme has aired information on diverse environmental and cultural issues.
Monitoring Wildlife Trade in Sri Lanka
A preliminary monitoring study on the trade of internationally and nationally threatened wild species was launched with the technical support of international monitoring bodies such as Traffic International. The study aims to minimize the impact of harvesting wild populations for the illegal and legalized markets.
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