The Rainforest Trust of Sri Lanka (RToSL), a public trust established in 2004 to protect and restore the country’s delicate rainforest ecosystems, recently conducted a significant educational initiative titled “Ceremonial Dedication to the Public of Name Boards of Trees” on June 13 at the Independence Walking Park. This event marked a noteworthy step in fostering environmental awareness.
During the dedication ceremony, name boards representing Colombo’s historic trees were officially unveiled to the public, reinforcing a pledge to preserve these century-old natural assets. The initiative aims to reconnect the urban population with the often-ignored tree heritage of the city.
Focusing on urban conservation, RToSL has implemented this awareness project targeting the largest community in Colombo. The trust is actively expanding its conservation efforts through strategic land acquisitions and restoration initiatives.
The event attracted over 150 attendees, including environmentalists, scholars, students, media personnel, and community members, showcasing RToSL’s expanding role in both rural and urban conservation efforts.
In collaboration with Hatton National Bank (HNB), which supported the creation of name boards for 52 trees, the initiative received an additional boost. HNB’s involvement underscores its dedication to promoting environmental awareness and enhancing the visibility of the project.
The dedication ceremony revealed scientifically documented name boards for 52 different tree species along the Walking Path. These boards were made from wood off-cuts and feature inscriptions in Sinhala, Tamil, English, and their botanical names. The Botany Society of the Plant Science Division at the University of Colombo identified the various species present along the path.
Students participated actively in the awareness sessions, discussing the ecological significance of the featured species, while experienced conservationists spoke about Sri Lanka’s bio-cultural heritage. A LED screen displayed visual content of RToSL’s protected forest areas, emphasizing the organization’s mission to cultivate a lasting sense of ‘Tree Conscience’ within urban communities.
Since its inception, the Trust has acquired and conserved abandoned tea plantations in the Galle District (2004–2007) and former chena lands in the Badulla District (2016–2024). Through persistent conservation actions, these areas have been allowed to regenerate into natural forests, protected from illegal logging, agricultural clearing, uncontrolled grazing, and illicit gem mining. This safeguarding has facilitated the gradual revival of crucial forest ecosystems in both districts.
The Udakiruwa project is noted for its biodiversity, rivaling that of the Sinharaja Rainforest. These conservation efforts protect habitats for endemic species, including the rare Weli Mua deer, Purple-faced Leaf Monkeys, and unique birds like the Blue Magpie and Sri Lanka’s Whistling Thrush.
Furthermore, the Trust’s holdings in Galle are adjacent to the Sinharaja Forest, while those in Badulla are situated within the Udakiruwa Valley, which harbors some of Sri Lanka’s last remaining mid-country rainforests. These areas now serve as crucial habitats for endemic species threatened by urban development and deforestation. The forest patches in Baddegama, Neluwa, Hiniduma, and Udakiruwa continue to naturally regenerate, significantly contributing to the preservation of Sri Lanka’s biodiversity and cultural heritage.
We take pride in the fact that the forest areas restored and protected in Baddegama, Neluwa, and Hiniduma in the South, along with Udakiruwa in Uva, have matured into ecosystems that exceed typical secondary forest standards. These flourishing habitats are essential refuges for Sri Lanka’s unique flora and fauna, many of which have lost their natural environments due to urbanization and infrastructure expansion, thus playing a vital role in conserving the country’s natural heritage and ecological resilience.
The Trust’s initiatives are sustained largely through its primary donor, Rainforest Concern UK, along with additional funding generated locally, ensuring the continuity of its conservation endeavors.
Vajira Silva, Founder Trustee of RToSL, remarked, “The public’s deep engagement with Colombo’s trees serves as a powerful reminder of nature’s ability to unite us. This initiative is not about fundraising; it focuses on education, awareness, and fostering a collective responsibility to protect Sri Lanka’s bio-cultural heritage for future generations.”
Through programs like ‘Naming the Trees’ and ongoing forest regeneration projects, the Rainforest Trust of Sri Lanka continues to motivate communities, involve youth, and safeguard biodiversity, ensuring the nation’s rainforests remain a living legacy for the future.
For additional information, please visit www.rainforest-trustlk.org.
