Sri Lanka has called for stronger regional cooperation across the Asia-Pacific to promote integrated climate action and expand blue carbon financing initiatives.
Speaking at a regional forum in Bangkok, Environment Deputy Minister Anton Jayakody stressed that protecting coastal ecosystems is essential for tackling climate change and ensuring sustainable development.
He said blue carbon ecosystems such as mangroves, seagrass meadows and salt marshes absorb carbon at rates significantly higher than tropical rainforests while storing it for centuries.
The Deputy Minister also highlighted the role of mangroves in protecting coastal communities, noting that they can reduce the impact of rising sea levels, cyclones and storm surges, drawing on lessons from the 2004 tsunami.
Jayakody said Sri Lanka has already taken steps to restore coastal ecosystems and achieve its climate goals through its updated Nationally Determined Contributions and National Adaptation Plan.
He added that, as the host of the South Asia Co-operative Environment Programme and an active member of the Indian Ocean Rim Association, Sri Lanka is working with regional partners on mangrove mapping, carbon stock assessments and knowledge-sharing initiatives.
Concluding his address, the Deputy Minister said investing in blue carbon ecosystems is vital not only for environmental protection but also for the long-term economic and social sustainability of the Asia-Pacific region.
