Part 10/12:

Lessons Learned and Ongoing Challenges

Addressing Environmental and Climate Threats

The tsunami underscored the importance of environmental preservation. Half of Sri Lanka’s mangroves and coastal forests have been lost over the last 30 years due to development. Mitaa and other advocates warn that climate change now poses an even greater threat—more frequent and intense storms, rising sea levels, and erosion threaten the very ecosystems that once protected these communities.

He urges the nation to harness natural barriers like mangroves and sea grasses, emphasizing that conserving these resources is crucial not only for Sri Lanka but globally. The recent increases in extreme weather events are warnings from nature, calling for urgent climate action.