For a greener tomorrow Sri Lanka marks Intl. Mother Earth Day today

 Jude Preman’s way of engaging youth through On-the-Ground Training

By Ravi Pratap Singh

As the vibrant hues of pink and yellow flowers paint the island nation in the month of April and the celebration of Avurudu is still on, Sri Lanka joins the global community in commemorating International Mother Earth Day on April 22, 2025. This year’s observance is urging for a renewed commitment to environmental stewardship amidst mounting local, national and global challenges.

April, in Sri Lanka, is the month when the Tabebuia rosea, commonly known as the rosy trumpet tree or pink poui, showers its beautiful pink flowers.  In this month, the Ehela (Cassia fistula) or Golder Shower Tree and the Yellow Flame Tree (Peltophorum pterocarpum) also spread its vibrant yellow flowers on the lands of Sri Lanka.  These deciduous trees shed its leaves during the blooming season, making it appear as if they are raining golden petals to add to the joy of Avurudu celebrations. These flowers attract many pollinators like bees, butterflies, and wasps to join the celebration of the Mother Earth. 

Sri Lanka, a biodiversity hotspot renowned for its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and diverse ecosystems like mangroves, is increasingly facing the impacts of climate change and environmental degradation. Rising temperatures are exacerbating the risk of wildfires, as evidenced by over 40 incidents reported in the first two months of this year alone. 

Erratic rainfall patterns contribute to both intense flooding, landslides and prolonged droughts, impacting agriculture and livelihoods across the island. Coastal erosion and saltwater intrusion are threatening coastal communities.

The urgency to address these issues is palpable. This year’s Mother Earth Day in Sri Lanka serves as a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness between human well-being and the health of our planet. It’s a call to action for every citizen, from policymakers to local communities, to embrace sustainable practices and contribute to a greener future.  In this effort, youth of the country can play a significant role and ensure a better future for themselves and for the subsequent generations.

The Sri Lankan government has been actively pursuing sustainable development goals. The unveiling of the “Green Energy Acceleration Plan 2025-2030” in February signifies a strong commitment to expanding renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydropower, aiming to provide affordable and clean electricity while minimising carbon emissions. Furthermore, the ambitious “Clean Sri Lanka” program is gaining momentum.

This year’s Mother Earth Day in Sri Lanka serves as a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness between human well-being and the health of our planet

Sri Lanka is striving to build a resilient green economy. The goal of integrating 25% electric vehicles into public transportation by the end of 2025 further underscores this commitment.

The grassroots initiatives of the local communities and various civil society organisations are playing a vital role in environmental conservation. The coastal clean-up and plantation drive for mangrove restoration by the fisher community of Negombo, led by Jude Preman with involvement of large number of school and college youth is worth mentioning.  Similarly, iLEAD International Academy has engaged a large number of youths in Mulaitivu, Jaffna, Trincomalee and Galle districts on various environmental conservation initiatives as part of their life skills development program.  Sri Lankans across the island are taking ownership of environmental protection. Initiatives focused on cleaning up polluted beaches and restoration of vital ecosystems like the Anavilundawa Ramsar wetland sanctuary, which includes the effort of the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society (WNPS) along with Department of Wildlife Conservation towards reclamation of 45 hectares of degraded land of deserted shrimp farms to restore mangroves.

The youth of Sri Lanka, a demographic brimming with energy, passion, and innovative thinking, can play a pivotal role in raising awareness, driving action, and shaping a sustainable future for this island nation. They can amplify awareness and education through social media campaigns, and through school and university engagement programs. Participation of youth in On-the-Ground Actions is crucial to bring quick positive changes.

The youth can also contribute by fostering innovation and green solutions through eco-entrepreneurship, technological solutions and research and development. 

The youth are also more active in building networks and collaboration and they can play an active role in connecting with organisations working on different environmental issues. 

The International Mother Earth Day provides a powerful platform for Sri Lankan youth to demonstrate their commitment to the planet.

As Sri Lanka observes International Mother Earth Day 2025, let it be a day of reflection, recommitment, and action. By embracing sustainable solutions, fostering a culture of environmental responsibility, and working together, Sri Lanka can safeguard its natural heritage for generations to come and contribute to a healthier planet for all. The time to act is now, for the future of our island and our Mother Earth depends on it.

(Ravi Pratap Singh is a global public policy expert; and Managing Director of iLEAD International Academy, Sri Lanka- which is promoting sustained youth engagement in the area of environmental conservation and climate resilience building at the local level)