Sustainability Agency and Empowerment Human Rights Responsibility
Sustainable Development Goals
SDG 15
Keywords
Ecosystem Environment Management Forest
Description
Since 2016, Ecosystem Conservation and Management projects have helped Sri Lanka improve ecosystem management and resilience to both conserve biodiversity and support communities. This project was designed to build modern capacity to manage ecosystems, improve management of the forest and protected areas, test a more integrated management of pilot landscapes, and support the livelihoods of the local communities. This approach allowed for the communities living next to protected areas and forests to contribute to planning and use of natural resources and developing biodiversity-compatible, productive, and climate-resilient livelihood activities that also reduce the pressure on natural forests. The project supported an integrated land use plan, helped better manage 290,000 hectares of forest, and modernized sector management capabilities. Over 25,190 (51 percent females) receive training and new income opportunities through 59 community livelihood programs, and an additional 9,300 (54 percent females) living in communities near protected areas benefit from activities. With more funding, the Forest Department was able to conduct more comprehensive training on disseminating technical and administrative knowledge on areas like indigenous species management, application of GIS, law enforcement, leadership, and nursery management. The curriculum and training material was well developed, and significantly impacted the participants in their ability to learn, as they most likely would not have received this opportunity elsewhere. Specifically when it comes to the training and implementation of this project, all these components highlighted above actually made use of some of the developmental guidelines we have set forth for future projects. This project in Sri Lanka was enacted all while keeping in mind important ecosystems and other environmental factors, and in fact, actually was designed to improve them (World Bank Group, 2021).
Lessons Learned
The Ecosystem Conservation and Management Project in Sri Lanka was an example of a development effort that did not seem to leave the community worse then they started. They created jobs and income opportunities, and provided training to many members of the communities so that they could manage this going forward. This project had multiple sustainable development goals in mind, as it not only aimed to help the environment but it aimed to support the livelihoods of the communities. To get a better understanding of how this project has impacted the community, we would have to ask them directly, but from the information we have, it does not seem to have harmed the community, and has provided people with opportunities to help them meet their needs.
World Bank Group. (2021, June 4). Sri Lanka: Protecting and conserving natural capital while boosting livelihoods for local communities. World Bank. Retrieved December 9, 2021, from World Bank
Case Study Evaluation using Project Evaluation Tool
Exemplary (given from an average score of 4.1 across the 7 values of worthwhile development)
Well-Being
Score: 3/5
The project has a moderate impact on well-being, but there are areas where improvements could enhance the overall experience for participants.
Equality
Score: 4/5
Considerable efforts are made to promote equality, with some areas for refinement in addressing disparities.
Human Rights
Score: 4/5
The project aimed to improve local communities’ livelihoods by providing income opportunities and ensuring human rights adherence, with minor areas for improvement.
Cultural Freedom
Score: 4/5
Over 50% of women participate in this project, promoting cultural freedom without affecting community members’ rights. Efforts are made to respect and incorporate cultural freedom, with areas for improvement.
Agency and Empowerment
Score: 4/5
The project provided training and income opportunities, empowering over half of its participants, with some areas for improvement to enhance overall agency.
Responsibility
Score: 5/5
Sri Lanka is demonstrating high responsibility for its ecosystems, focusing on animal and nature conservation, demonstrating ethical implications, and accountability to stakeholders.
Sustainability
Score: 5/5
The project, considering environmental, economic, and social aspects, is a highly sustainable development that will benefit both current and future generations, ensuring long-term benefits.
