Project concept on Promoting Sustainable Economic Benefits through the Conservation of Critical Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services in the Eastern and Southern Coastal Region of Sri Lanka was developed by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) under the guidance of Ministry of Environment, and it has been approved for funding under the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Cycle 08. This concept needs to be further developed into a project proposal that needs to be submitted for approval of the GEF council by end of 2024.

Accordingly on August 13, 2024, a significant milestone was reached with the Inception Workshop for the preparation of project proposal of the above project, held at Waters Edge, this workshop brought together key figures in environmental conservation and sustainable development.

The event was graced by opening remarks from Ms. R.H.M.P. Abeykoon, Additional Secretary (Environment Policy & Planning) on behalf of the Ministry of Environment, and Ms. Azusa Kubota, Resident Representative of UNDP on behalf of UNDP. Their insights set a positive tone for the project’s ambitious goals.

This initiative aligns with the National Environmental Action Plan (NEAP) and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (2022-2030). It focuses on enhancing the management effectiveness of protected areas, both terrestrial and marine, and aims to restore degraded wetlands, forests, and agricultural lands across Batticaloa, Ampara, and Hambantota districts.

The aim of this workshop was to aware and gather further comments and suggestions to develop the appropriate comprehensive project proposal. The team of consultants provided an overview of the Project Identification Form which was submitted to the GEF and process of the preparation of full project proposal.