Sri Lanka hosts global Blue Carbon experts

• ‘‘ The meeting provided a unique platform for emerging Sri Lankan scientists to present research inspired by local blue carbon ecosystems” -Prof. Sevvandi Jayakody
   
• Observing the UN-awarded mangrove restoration project firsthand underscored how science, policy, and community action can work together for climate mitigation” - Ashleigh McGovern, Conservation International

Sri Lanka successfully hosted the International Blue Carbon Scientific Working Group meeting on September 10–11, bringing global experts together to advance research on mangroves, seagrasses, and tidal marshes.
The Blue Carbon Initiative (BCI) is a global programme that protects and restores coastal ecosystems like mangroves, marshes, and seagrass.
Coordinated by Conservation International, UNESCO, and IUCN, it links science with policy to capture carbon, combat climate change, preserve biodiversity, and support sustainable coastal livelihoods worldwide.
The event highlighted the importance of coastal ecosystems in climate mitigation, biodiversity preservation, and human well-being, organised by the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society (WNPS), Conservation International, IOC-UNESCO, and IUCN.
The meeting was inaugurated by Deputy Minister Anton Jayakody and Ashleigh McGovern of Conservation International.
Prof. Hilary Kennedy of Bangor University delivered the keynote address, while local co-chair Prof. Sevvandi Jayakody oversaw sessions on blue carbon in Sri Lanka, biodiversity alignment, field updates, and translating science into actionable strategies.
Young Sri Lankan researchers from Wayamba University showcased ecosystem-based projects inspired by local blue carbon habitats.
A highlight of the event was a full-day field visit to the Anawilundawa RAMSAR Wetland Site.
Participants observed mangrove restoration projects, community-based livelihood initiatives, and the UN-awarded Accelerated Natural Regeneration of Mangroves programme. Scientists from the Smithsonian Institution and Florida International University conducted carbon-methane flux training using specialised instruments.
The meeting successfully strengthened global collaboration, provided a platform for emerging researchers, and emphasised balancing ecosystem restoration with local community and socio-economic priorities. Sri Lanka’s hosting of the event reinforced its role as a hub for advancing science, policy, and practical management of blue carbon ecosystems worldwide.
As the climate crisis accelerates, the Blue Carbon Initiative (BCI) stands as a coordinated global programme dedicated to conserving and restoring coastal ecosystems-mangroves, tidal marshes, and seagrass meadows—for their importance to climate mitigation, biodiversity and human well-being.
The BCI is coordinated by Conservation International, Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO and IUCN.