Page 180 - MDSL Final

CONCEPTS AND APPLICATION OF MARITIME POWER

The Oceans and Coastal resources of the Sri Lanka are
currently facing three types of separate but, interactive
threats. The first is pollution from both land and sea-
based sources, which causes direct damage to specialized
ecosystem such as mangroves, coral reefs and sea grasses
whilst weakening the ability of marine plants and animals
to survive. The second is a direct threat to the biomass and
ecological balance of the marine environment through over
fishing and unsustainable extraction of resources. The third
threat is from the direct physical damage to coastal and
marine ecosystem from urban development activities.
Sri Lanka is one of the leading nations that has ratified almost
forty-one international conventions, agreements, treaties
and protocols related to environment. Therefore, it is a
national obligation for the country to protect and conserve
the environment.

SLN being the ideal organisation to address such issues
having the unique character, resources and capabilities
to undertake special projects with the aim to establish a
sustainable marine environment.
Some of the projects undertaken by SLN are:

• Mangrove plantation.
• Forestry tree plantation.
• Conservation of underwater marine sites.
• Coral plantation and conservation.
• Beach cleaning programmes.
• Dumping control.
• Legitimate fishing activities.
• Conservation of Turtles.

To Nurture a Stable Environment at Sea 161