Ten months ago, the Cinnamon Rainforest Conservation Project launched a reforestation effort adjacent to the renowned Sinharaja Rainforest. Ocean Lanka (Pvt) Ltd, a prominent manufacturer of weft knitted fabrics in Sri Lanka, collaborated with students from the Environmental Technology Society at the University of Colombo, as well as Greenwood Growers and other conservation partners, to plant indigenous saplings in Waddagala, Ratnapura. Initially starting with delicate two-foot seedlings, the initiative has evolved into a flourishing restoration project, with many of the saplings now approaching four feet in height, playing a crucial role in the recovery of one of Sri Lanka’s vital rainforest ecosystems.
The commitment of Ocean Lanka to environmental sustainability and biodiversity has been significantly bolstered by the successful conclusion of Phase 02 of the project, part of the Dilmah Conservation Restoration Project in Delwala, Ratnapura, adjacent to the Sinharaja Rainforest. Following the positive outcomes of Phase 01, this latest phase not only intensified restoration efforts but also monitored the ecological recovery of the replanted areas. Young native trees are already aiding in soil stabilization, enhancing natural regeneration, and establishing new habitats for returning wildlife.
Remarkably, over 85% of the saplings from the initial phase have survived and flourished, notwithstanding the dry conditions experienced earlier this year. The restored corridor has gradually attracted birds and small mammals back, while native canopy species exhibit robust growth. The involvement of volunteers and local community members has been vital for the protection of saplings, the eradication of invasive species, and the support of the land’s natural recovery. These results highlight the land’s potential for self-healing when provided with appropriate intervention and sustained commitment.
As part of the broader restoration initiative, nearly 22,000 native trees have been planted, and biodiversity assessments indicate a notable increase in the variety of flora and fauna within the restoration zone. Faunal diversity has risen from 189 to 251 species, including a marked growth in butterfly populations, while the diversity of native flora has expanded from 92 to 123 species. The ongoing use of scientific monitoring techniques, such as permanent sampling plots, belt transects, and biodiversity tracking, continues to guide the restoration efforts and ensure measurable environmental outcomes.
Dr. Thakshila Nadeeshani Dharmapriya from the University of Colombo remarked on the initiative’s success, stating, “These partnerships have proven the effectiveness of collaboration between the public and private sectors in safeguarding and revitalizing our natural heritage. The Dilmah Reforestation Project exemplifies how science, collaboration, and community involvement can rejuvenate degraded ecosystems. This region is already witnessing a resurgence in biodiversity.”
Ocean Lanka emphasizes that its broader sustainability strategy aims to create a lasting environmental impact beyond its primary business activities, as evidenced by the successful completion of Phase 02. The company remains committed to the restoration of Sri Lanka’s wet zone rainforests and the development of a more resilient and ecologically sustainable future for upcoming generations through ongoing collaborations and conservation-focused initiatives.
