Sri Lanka received a € 8 million grant after signing an agreement with the European Union (EU) yesterday (23), to launch an initiative to foster sustainable economic recovery through improved biodiversity conservation and solid waste management.
The € 8 million grant, provided by the EU, will support a project jointly developed by the Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government, the Ministry of Environment, and the EU.
The initiative is to support biodiversity conservation by restoring degraded ecosystems, implementing targeted conservation strategies, and promoting sustainable land-use practices.
It will also address the growing need for effective solid waste management systems, contributing to both environmental protection and improved public health, the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development said in a statement.
This project aligns closely with the government’s national policy statement, “A Thriving Nation - A Beautiful Life”, which acknowledges the urgent need to balance economic development with environmental sustainability, according to the Finance Ministry statement.
The Ministry stated that the government recognises that past efforts have fallen short in creating an eco-friendly and resilient economy, and the partnership with the EU is a significant step forward in strengthening that course.
The grant agreement was formally signed yesterday by Finance, Planning and Economic Development Ministry Secretary Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma on behalf of the government and Ambassador of the European Union to Sri Lanka Carmen Moreno on behalf of the EU.
Ambassador Moreno said: “Biodiversity is one of the most important assets of Sri Lanka, and through this project we will work together with the authorities to strengthen its protection by improving management of waste. EU experience, technology and private sector investments are key elements in the project that will support Sri Lankan policies to connect to the world. Protection of biodiversity contributes to global health and the fight against climate change.”
Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma expressed sincere appreciation to the EU for its valuable support, noting that the project aligns closely with Sri Lanka’s sustainable development agenda and its dedication to protecting biodiversity.