• How our rainforests shape our livelihoods 

Rainforests are a key part of the Lankan communal identity. Whether it be for tourism or giving a home to millions of endangered plant and animal species, the rainforests are undoubtedly one of our most important resources.

“The rainforests have played a large role in helping our communities thrive,” Nature-Life International Scientific Advisor and University of Hohenheim Professor Friedhelm Goeltenboth, said at an event held on the 29 January to discuss rainforestation farming held as part of Dilmah Conservation’s Genesis Thought Leadership Series. Prof. Goeltenboth, a global authority with over 25 years shaping forest restoration across Asia, noted that while rainforests all over the world have been under threat, there is much we can do to protect them. 

Connecting with our forests

Our rainforests have been a source of great concern and connection over the years. Whether it be the vast Amazon rainforest or the beautiful Sinharaja forest, rainforests have been something that has been both protected and poached. 

Rainforests continue to play a vital role in supporting livelihoods across the world. Many communities depend on forests for food, shelter and income. Forest resources such as fruits, medicinal plants and timber contribute directly to daily survival, particularly in rural areas.

According to Prof. Goeltenboth, rainforests provide more than just environmental benefits.

“For many communities, rainforests are closely linked to their economic stability,” he said. “Protecting forests also means protecting people’s livelihoods.”

In countries with strong agricultural sectors, rainforests help maintain soil fertility and water cycles. These factors are essential for farming and food production. Without forest cover, land degradation becomes more common, affecting crop yields and income.

Rainforests have also contributed to tourism industries. Nature-based tourism attracts visitors interested in biodiversity, wildlife and natural landscapes. This has created employment opportunities for local communities, including tour guides, accommodation providers and small business owners.

Environmental threats and human activity

Despite their importance, rainforests remain under threat from human activity. Deforestation caused by logging, agriculture and infrastructure development continues to reduce forest cover worldwide.

Prof. Goeltenboth noted that economic pressures often drive deforestation.

 “In many cases, forests are cleared to meet short-term economic goals,” he said. “The long-term environmental costs are often overlooked.”

Illegal logging remains a major concern, particularly in protected forest areas. Limited monitoring and enforcement make it difficult to control these activities. As a result, forest ecosystems continue to degrade despite existing laws.

Agricultural expansion has also contributed to forest loss. Large-scale farming projects often require clearing significant areas of land. While these projects may support economic growth, they can permanently damage forest ecosystems.

Infrastructure development, including roads and urban expansion, further fragments forest areas. This disrupts wildlife habitats and reduces biodiversity, making it harder for species to survive.

Rainforests and biodiversity

Rainforests are home to a large percentage of the world’s plant and animal species. Many of these species are found nowhere else on Earth. The loss of rainforest habitats therefore poses a serious threat to global biodiversity.

“Rainforests support complex ecosystems that take centuries to develop,” Prof. Goeltenboth said. “Once they are destroyed, they cannot be easily replaced.”

Deforestation forces wildlife into smaller areas, increasing competition for resources. This can lead to population decline and extinction, particularly for endangered species.

In Sri Lanka, forests such as Sinharaja are known for their high levels of endemic species. Conservationists have long highlighted the importance of protecting these forests to preserve biodiversity.

The loss of biodiversity also affects humans. Healthy ecosystems support pollination, water purification and climate regulation. When these systems are disrupted, the effects are felt beyond forest boundaries.

Climate regulation and water security

Rainforests play a crucial role in regulating the global climate. They absorb large amounts of carbon dioxide, helping to reduce the effects of climate change.

“Protecting rainforests is one of the most effective natural solutions to climate change,” Prof. Goeltenboth explained.

Forests also influence rainfall patterns and water cycles. Many rivers originate in forested areas, supplying water to cities, farms and villages. When forests are cleared, water sources can become unreliable or polluted.

Deforestation has been linked to increased flooding and droughts in several regions. Without forest cover, soil erosion becomes more severe, affecting both agriculture and infrastructure.

Climate change has further increased pressure on rainforests. Rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns weaken forest ecosystems, making them more vulnerable to fires and disease.

The role of conservation and education

Conservation efforts have increasingly focused on involving local communities. Community-based conservation programmes aim to balance environmental protection with economic needs.

Prof. Goeltenboth emphasised the importance of education in these efforts. 

“Awareness and education are essential for long-term conservation,” he said. “People are more likely to protect forests when they understand their value.”

Educational programmes in schools and universities have helped raise awareness about rainforest conservation. Workshops, field visits and public discussions have encouraged greater engagement with environmental issues.

Non-governmental organisations have also played a role in promoting conservation initiatives. These organisations often work with local communities to develop sustainable practices and alternative income sources.

Technology has supported conservation efforts through satellite monitoring and data collection. These tools help track deforestation and identify illegal activities, although experts note that technology alone is not sufficient.

Moving forward

As global challenges continue to grow, experts stress the need for coordinated action. Governments, communities and international organisations must work together to protect remaining rainforests.

“Rainforests are not only environmental assets,” he said. “They are essential for human wellbeing and future generations.”

Policy enforcement, sustainable development and public awareness are all considered key factors in successful conservation. Long-term commitment is required to ensure that forests are protected beyond short-term initiatives.

Rainforests continue to shape livelihoods, ecosystems and cultures across the world. Their protection remains a shared responsibility that extends beyond national borders.

Preserving rainforests is not only about conserving nature. It is about safeguarding livelihoods, maintaining environmental balance and ensuring a sustainable future.