The government is currently implementing special programs for marine and coastal conservation, including entering into agreements with other countries to protect Sri Lanka’s marine and coastal ecosystems.
As part of this effort, Sri Lanka has become a state party to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction. The instrument of ratification for this has been submitted to the United Nations.
In a bid to ensure coastal cleanliness and marine protection, the Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA) and the Coast Conservation and Coastal Resources Management Department, both affiliated with the Ministry of Environment, are undertaking various positive initiatives.
In line with these efforts, the Marine Environment Protection Authority has organized a special program at the Panadura beach tomorrow, (September 20), for International Coastal Cleanup Day. The event will be held under the patronage of the Minister of Environment, Dr. Dammika Patabendi, with the participation of the Deputy Minister of Environment, Anton Jayakody.
Similar to this event, programs are being organized across all 14 coastal districts of Sri Lanka to mark this day and Marine Resources Conservation Week. These activities are expected to involve government agencies, the private sector, the tri-forces, the police, and schoolchildren.
