Local knowledge building to address conservation issues

Objectives

Capacity building through training workshops to enable identification of issues and pressures on ecosystems, and thereby evolve small scale programmes for sustainable management of these ecosystems.

Background

After the 30 year civil unrest in the country, Mannar and Batticaloa districts are undergiong development at a fast rate. The younger generation should be aware of the environmental issues in their surroundings so that they will be in a position to protect them when the need arrises.   

Awareness programmes, a study tour, development of resource maps to identify the natural wealth of the area are the project activities.

Target beneficiaries

25 youth each from Mannar and Batticaloa districts.

Outputs

1. 2 resource maps
2. a study tour
3. Awareness programmes on:

• agriculture, environment, fisheries and other livelihoods 
• ecosystems in the areas and the possible threats
• disaster risk reduction and mitigation

Accomplishments and challenges

50 youth enhanced their knowledge on the natural wealth of the areas where they live, issues and possible methods of conservation.

Contributions to cross-cutting themes

An awareness programme on distaster risk reduction and mitigation enabled 50 youth from Mannar and Batticaloa districts to enhanced their knowledge on risk reduction and mitigation options.

Lessons Learned

1) need to continue training of youth for more knowledge and skills enhancement

 2) the need to avoid duplication of work through close coordination with other organizations

 3) the need to use the skills of youth who do not have the opportunity to use these skills

 4) awareness of the willingness of environment related state institutions to support the current programmes

 5) most communities have little or no knowledge on the need to protect the environment, as well as in management of solid waste disposal