| Popis: |
With increase in number, frequency and intensity, and its link to climate change, natural hazards are becoming complicated to manage. As a solution, ecosystem-based approach has gained much attention in many parts of the world. Sri Lanka is no exception. Being a tropical island nation Sri Lanka is vulnerable to a variety of disasters with many socioeconomic and environmental impacts. This chapter provides context for ecosystem-based disaster risk reduction (Eco-DRR) approaches and experiences in Sri Lanka. It also highlights how fully functioning natural habitats increase disaster resilience especially to cope up with extreme weather events. Examples from good practices and ancient wisdom are discussed with a special reference to traditional home gardens and protected area management. Recent case studies on wetland management and coastal disaster resilience through mangrove restoration are stressed. How community resilience, especially in rural areas, is enhanced through ecosystem services is explored with examples. Finally, this chapter addresses the issues and challenges in mainstreaming Eco-DRR into national policy and action agendas to offer a “greener alternative” for better disaster management. |
