January 03, Colombo (LNW): In a significant move to align with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, Sri Lanka has committed to enhancing its forest cover to 32% of the total land area by 2030. Additionally, the nation aims to bolster the quantity of carbon absorbed by forests by 7% from existing levels within the same timeframe.
To achieve these targets, proactive measures have been initiated, encompassing extensive forest plantation, rehabilitation of degraded forests, and expanding forest cover on government and private lands situated away from forested areas. Although the benefits of this reforestation endeavor are national in scope, active involvement from diverse stakeholders is being encouraged. As an incentive, it has been acknowledged as appropriate to distribute the benefits derived from reforestation among the participating entities.
Presently, there is a lack of legal provisions enabling the allocation of produce like fruits, leaves, flowers, timber, and resin to individuals engaged in reforestation efforts in public areas. Moreover, recognizing the potential in establishing a National Reforestation Fund, aimed at securing contributions from private sector entities, non-governmental organizations, and international bodies, to ensure ample funding for highly productive reforestation initiatives.
Responding to these critical needs, the Minister of Wildlife and Forest Resources Conservation proposed the introduction of a comprehensive legislative framework titled the “Reforestation and Forest Cover Act.” This act encompasses provisions that cater to the aforementioned actions and strategies required for successful reforestation efforts. The Cabinet has granted its approval for the proposal, marking a crucial step toward effective reforestation management in Sri Lanka.
