Analysis of possible scenarios for conserving forest cover in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Forest cover of Sri Lanka shows a decreasing trend, since the early 19th century. Population growth, Agricultural and irrigation development activities, settlements, urbanization, industrialization, and infrastructure developments are largely responsible for the increasing trend of deforestation. 82% of dense forest cover in Sri Lanka in 1882 had been gradually decreased to 27% in 2015. Due to the multifarious forestation programs; such as ‘Punarudaya’ environmental protection program, ‘Wana Ropa’ reforestation program and several other tree planting projects implemented by the Government and non-Government organizations after 2015; the forest cover has begun to show a slight increase thereafter. Sri Lankan government has an intention to increase national forest cover to 30-32% by 2020. Relevant stakeholders’ contributions to implement special projects to increase forest density and to manage and conserve the existing forest at the same level are more vital. This analytical essay was written with the objective of revamping the history/trend of the forest cover and suggesting probable action to develop the forest sector in the future to meet the 2020 target. The qualitative approaches have been followed, utilizing only secondary data for this paper. We had multiple plans, actions, and projects to enhance the forest cover in Sri Lanka since 1940 from time to time changing Government; however, we as a nation still struggle to bring-up the percentage of the forest cover up to a certain level. Hence, it is suggested to have a single irrevocable policy/plan to develop forest cover in Sri Lanka, which cannot be stopped or revoke by any Government or policy, rather adding value or benefit to maintain it in a sustainable manner. It further requires a periodic review to evaluate the pros and cons of it and to be incorporate adjustments, wherever necessary.