WNPS and DWC partners with Abans to combat deforestation
Being one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots, Sri Lanka possesses a large proportion of endemic species and dense forests. One of the country’s most significant wildlife habitats is the Attidiya-Bellanwila region, which is home to unique plant and animal species. Yet, this region is at the threat of degradation and extinction due to increased urbanisation, poaching and deforestation.
So, the Wildlife Nature and Protection Society (WNPS), the 3rd oldest environmental organisation of its kind in the world that was instrumental in setting up the first National Parks in Sri Lanka, has partnered with LG and Abans to promote a cause fundamental to the survival of the natural world, and of the human species – the mass scale planting of trees.
The other partner, and of extreme importance, is the Department o f Wi l d l i f e Conservation ( DWC), the statutory guardian of wildlife and of the protected areas they inhabit. The DWC has custody of 12% of the land mass of Sri Lanka, and it has a vital role to play in preserving the natural heritage of this country for future generations to enjoy, and survive in.
The Project
The Green Isle Project was launched on the 7th of August, 2019, at the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, Attidiya. The Project will focus on combating habitat loss, which has been identified as a major threat towards the continued survival of Sri Lanka’s unique position as a biodiversity hotspot. Additionally, the project will raise awareness of the importance of sustaining the delicate balance of the Sri Lankan ecosystem; a necessity not only for the continued existence of our country’s wildlife but also, as stated above, that of the local human population.
The Corporate Champions
The day- long launch was held under the auspices of LG Electronics Dignitaries including Product Director Terry Kim, Ms. Sol Lee, and Brian Kwak. Abans’ Senior Management such asGroupChief Executive Officer Mr. Sriyan de Silva Wijeyeratne, Deputy Director Buddhika Dharmawardena, and Head of Home Appliance Products Ruwan Gunasekara attended the occasion. WNPS Dignitary Professor Lakdas Fernando and Secretary to the Ministry of Tourism Development, Wildlife, and Christian Religious Affairs Siri Hettiarachchiwere also in attendance.