EMM 2020

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://ir.lib.pdn.ac.lk/handle/20.500.14444/5724

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The socio-economic impact of Annona glabra Invasive Alien Species, IAS special reference to the Mudun Ela eatchment
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2020-10-23) Premathilake,H.D.P.C.; Jayarathne, M.
Invasive alien species (IAS) have negatively impacted native biota and socio – economic environments worldwide. All major invasions are due to the actions of humans such as delibarate introductions or escapes and hitchhiking with global trade of species to other continents. Annona glabra plants highly impact the wetland ecosystems and socio –economic activities of the western part of Sri Lanka. The main objective of this study is to identify the socio-economic impact of the Annona glabra plant in the Mudun ela catchment area in the Mahara divisional secretariat division. Primary and secondary data were used for this research and also used to calculated density of invasive plants in this area. Shannon Weiner density calculator was used in calculating the density, so that it could be identified whether IAS growth has affected human activities. Primary data were collected through semi – structured questionnaires, observations, and open discussion while reporting with 30 people in 30 randomly selected families, books, articles and institutional reports have been used as secondary sources. Secondary data have confirmed that the Annona glabra plant richness and density were at the highest levels in the study area.It could be identified that the people were not aware of the threats of Annona glabra plant to the ecosystem as well as socio-economic activities. Paddy and herbal plant fields have been encroached by this plant, so this area has experienced an increase of reptiles and rats. Therefore, people in this area face a lot of problems such as snake bites and rat damaging electric power instruments and other factory equipment. Moreover the growth of this plant harm to the diversity of plants. Therefore, awareness programmes to control the growth of this plant are needed
Environmental sustainability through green human resource management practices
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2020-10-23) Dissanayake, Dinusha
Green HRM involves eco-friendly human resource policies and practices in organizations with the vision of achieving sustainability. The main objective of this study is to find the green HR practices relating to Recruitment (entry), Training and Development, Performance Appraisal and Management, Employee Relations, Pay and Reward, and Leaving (Exit) based on current literature. The methodology of the study was qualitative. Systematic review of literature was conducted by using an archival method. Researcher reviewed 91 articles cited in the online databases of Sage, Google scholar, Springer link, Science Direct, Wiley, and Emerald with green HRM as the topic. Articles published in 1992 and 2019 have been reviewed. Data reduction, data display, and drawing conclusion were the three steps in data analysis. Reduction of data was carried through coding and categorization with respect to six themes mentioned in the objective. Data displayed using a table. The findings overviewed the following, relating to Recruitment (entry) all the articles mentioned that recruit persons with a green mentality was best, when selecting people ask environmental issues/questions in the interview. When it comes to Training and Development found that environmental training was the best way. Considering Performance Appraisal and Management found that managers need to formulate green related measurements to evaluate the employee performance. In Employee Relations found that participative decision making in green related matters. When evaluating the Pay and Reward suggested that green reward management system depends on green performance evaluation. Finally, Leaving (Exit) found that carry out green exit interviews and if the exit was environmental related issues need to improve that area. In Conclusion through green HR functions, it can gain Environmental Sustainability. Finally, it will recommend preparing a green HRM policy to achieve the Environmental Sustainability.
Green bond: a new debt instrument for environmental resilient projects
(University of Peradeniya,Sri Lanka, 2020-10-23) Nanayakkara, K.G.M.; Colombage, Sisira
Owing to the agreement around the world regarding the negative effects of climate change and the requirement for high levels of cost-effective debt capital to finance projects that yield environmental benefits, Green Bonds (GB) were introduced to the global capital market in 2007. Despite high expectations on GB in the capital market as a source of financing green projects, the GB market has not been as effective as first expected at addressing the global climate change problem. There is a substantive investment gap worldwide in meeting the financing need of green projects. Therefore, a scientific investigation is essential to find out the reasons that limit the growth of the GB market, which was the objective of this study. The study employed a qualitative research approach to address this timely topic by using content analysis. The study reviewed all key publications of global market players during 2007 to 2019 to identify how stakeholders in the world perceive the GB market. The study has validated the significant findings through opinions of stakeholders in the market using both, interviews and questionnaire surveys. Findings of the study reveal that not only the investor side, but supply side of the market is also not up to scale. Whilst the high administration cost, limited knowledge about the market, limited standardization and difficulties in obtaining credit ratings limit the supply side of the market, absence of large-scale issues, less market liquidity, and fear for green washing due to less market credibility limit the demand side. Streamlining of Green Bond Principles and greater intervention of governments are recommended as the main solutions to overcome these challenges.
Agricultural impact on groundwater in sandy aquifers of the Kalpitiya peninsula, Sri Lanka
(University of Peradeniya,Sri Lanka, 2020-10-23) Jayathunga, Kaushalya; Chandrajith, Rohana
Groundwater in shallow sandy aquifers in the Kalpitiya Peninsula is an essential resource since no other freshwater sources are available in this peninsular. In order to delineate the influence of agricultural activities on the groundwater quality in the region, a comprehensive hydro geochemical study was carried out to investigate the processes that affect the groundwater quality in the region. Major and trace element content in 43 groundwater samples were measured alone with δ18O, δ2H and δ13C signatures. Anions of samples were measured using ion chromatography while cations were quantified by ICP-MS. Water isotopes of δ18O and δ2H were determined using cavity ring down laser spectrometer while δ13C was quantified by isotope ratio mass spectrometer. The groundwater in the peninsula was dominated by Na+, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, NO3-, HCO3−, Cl− and SO42−. Nitrate-N concentrations recorded up to 186 mg/L, which is well above the WHO recommended limits. It provided evidences for anthropogenic inputs of solutes, most likely from agriculture activities. Among the toxic trace elements, As and Se levels in groundwater were also higher compared to that of the dry zone metamorphic aquifers in Sri Lanka, possibly due to influence of the marine sprays. Except in few wells, saltwater intrusion was not significant. Irrigation return flows and their associated evaporation enriched the solute contents in the aquifer. This was confirmed by the stable isotope composition of groundwater that deviated from the local meteoric water line (LMWL) and formed its regression line denoted as the local evaporation line (LEL). The LMWL can be described by δ2H = 5.51*δ18O- 3.08. The corresponding δ13CDIC values varied from −13.8‰ to −8.0‰. These isotopes are more typical for carbonate dissolution and equilibration of CO2 in the aquifer. This study showed that the underlying carbonate system might buffer the aqueous geochemistry of the groundwater in the peninsula. The results of this study indicate that integrated water management is essential and water resources should critically monitor the Kalpitiya Peninsula in order to avoid over-exploitation and seawater inflows
Study on climatic factors influencing leptospirosis transmission in Southern and Eastern provinces, Sri Lanka
(University of Peradeniya,Sri Lanka, 2020-10-23) Priyadarshana, P.H.M.G.C.; Bandara, A.G.G.C; Imanthiv, S.M.D.A.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that can be transmitted to humans via contact with rodents, domestic animals, and contaminated water and soil. The disease is an emerging public health problem around the world. Leptospirosis has become one of the notifiable infectious diseases in Sri Lanka in recent years. This study investigates the impact of climate factors (temperature and rainfall) on leptospirosis transmission in the Southern and Eastern provinces of Sri Lanka through a statistical approach. Initially, the climate data and reported leptospirosis cases from 2015 to2019 were obtained from the Metrological Department of Sri Lanka and the Epidemiology unit in Sri Lanka, respectively. One-way ANOVA test was used considering 0.05 as the mean significant level. There was a significant leptospirosis occurrence between the districts of Southern and Eastern provinces (p=0.000, DF=1, F=105.93). In contrast, there was a significant difference of temperature versus leptospirosis (p=0.008, DF=60, F=1.63). Also, there was a significant difference of rainfall with the leptospirosis occurrence (p=0.048, DF=345, F=2.17). This study shows a substantial synergism between leptospirosis and climate factors in Southern and Eastern provinces of Sri Lanka. It is important to bring together patterns of leptospirosis transmission compatible with long-term data on climate and other social and ecological changes and this would advance forecast of leptospirosis risk associated with climate change. It will provide the essential information for the formulation of better strategies and methods of preventing leptospirosis
Heavy metal contaminated dust in kindergartens and elementary schools in Kelaniya, Sri Lanka
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2020-10-23) Sudesh,K.G.A.A.; Deeyamulla, M.P.
Toxic heavy metal containing street dust can be accumulated in the human body. Heavy metals pose potentially deleterious effects in young children, who are more sensitive than adults. There is a lack of information related the presence of heavy metals in dust found in kindergartens and elementary schools. The aim of this study was to quantify the amounts of heavy metals in kindergartens and elementary schools in the metropolitan city of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka. Concentrations of Fe, Zn, Cu, Cr, and Pb in dust and soil (i.e., 0-15 cm depth) of 21 kindergartens were analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrometry and to calculate the geo accumulation index (Igeo). Minimum Detection Limit (MDL), Instrument Detection Limit (IDL), and Lowest Detection Limit (LOD) were obtained for Cu, Cd, Pb, and Ni to ensure quality control and assurance. The calculated Igeo levels reveal the order as Cu > Pb > Ni > Zn > Cd > Control. The mean concentration order of the studied metals in dust was; CPb > CCu > CZn > CNi(control) > CNi> CCd> CControl. The observed concentration of Cu, Cd, Ni, Pb, and Zn in the dust samples were within the acceptable limits. The calculated Igeo values depict the uncontaminated or moderately contaminated for Pb, Cd, Zn, Ni and Igeo value of Cu depicts moderately or strongly contaminated. Rapid development, increased traffic emissions and industrial activities could be the sources of heavy metal pollution in the area. The findings suggest more attention is required in the future to minimize heavy metal pollution in kindergartens of Kelaniya area.
Risk assessment of exposure to toxic metals via drinking water: a study in some CKDu endemic areas, Sri Lanka
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2020-10-23) Perera,W.P.R.T.; Botheju,W.S.M.; Dayananda,M.D.N.R.; Liyanage, J.A.
Heavy metal pollution becomes increasingly severe in Sri Lanka with intensive agriculture and the shortage of clean, freshwater resources. Monitoring water quality is important because the enhanced concentrations of heavy metals in portable water is a threat to human health. Therefore, this research aims to analyze the heavy metal concentrations and assess the quality of drinking water using Heavy Metal Pollution Index (HPI) in CKDu endemic regions including the Wewalketiya Grama Niladhari Division (GND) in the Anuradhapura district, Ambagaswewa GND in the Polonnaruwa district, Naminigama GND in the Matale district and Buddhangala GND in the Ampara district (reference area). Replicated water samples were randomly collected from thirty drinking water wells from each GND and heavy metals (Cadmium, Lead, Chromium, and Arsenic) were analyzed by Inductive Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry. In Wewalketiya Cd (3.440±0.072), Pb (5.422±0.687), Cr (11.510±8.360) and As; 0.00 in ppb levels. Heavy metal concentrations in Amabagaswewa GND were Cd (0.178±0.162), Pb (1.229±0.537), Cr (0.203±0.023) and As (0.336±0.014), respectively in ppb levels. Cd, Pb, Cr and As concentrations in Naminigama GND were 0.050±0.006, 0.120±0.016, 0.550±0.077 and 0.330±0.043, respectively in same units. HPIs for Wewalketiya, Ambagaswewa, Naminigama, and Buddhangala GNDs were 91.907, 21.989, 7.267 and 19.423, respectively. The HPI shows the overall quality of water with respect to the content of heavy metals and its critical value is 100. Ambgaswewa and Wewalketiya GNDs have higher HPI values compared to the reference and Naminigama GND. Therefore, the-long term exposure to heavy metal via drinking water may be the major risk factor for renal failures. The differences in HPIs can be attributed to the variations in concentrations of the heavy metals in drinking water and this study has relevance to designing control measures and action plans for reducing pollutants in drinking water in North Central region of Sri Lanka.
Toxicity assessment of fungicide containing captan 50% WP on Asian Common Toad (Duttaphrynus melanostictus) Tadpoles and Common Onion (Allium cepa)
(University of Peradeniya,Sri Lanka, 2020-10-23) Pathiraja,P.P.M.D.L.; Rathanayaka, R.R.P.Y.K.; Gunawardena, M.P.
Ecotoxicology is a specialized form found in toxicology that focuses more specifically on the toxic substances and its effect on ecosystems. Agrochemicals are used in fields to destroy pests and weeds, which can exert toxic effects to non-target organisms. This study was undertaken to determine the effect of the commonly used fungicide, Captan 50% WP on the Asian common toad (Duttaphrynus melanostictus) and Common onion (Allium cepa) under laboratory conditions. Acute toxicity of fungicide Captan 50% WP was evaluated. In this study Duttaphrynus melanostictus tadpoles were used because they are widely spread. Allium cepa was also tested since they have high absorbent level and high germination rate. After preliminary range finding tests (1 ppm – 500 ppm, 0.2 ppm – 1 ppm, 0.02 ppm – 0.1 ppm, and 0.001 ppm – 0.03 ppm) five days post–hatch Duttaphrynus melanostictus (Gosner stage 25-26; Gosner, 1960) were exposed to five increasing concentrations of Captan (0.010 ppm, 0.0125 ppm, 0.015 ppm, 0.0175 ppm, and 0.020 ppm) for 48 hours and de-chlorinated tap water was used as the control. After 48 hours of exposure, mortality of Duttaphrynus melanostictus increased along concentration gradient. Overall results indicate LC50 value of 0.02187 ppm. Acute toxicity of Allium cepa was evaluated by 72 hours experiment of root growth with range of fungicide concentrations (0.2 ppm, 0.4 ppm, 0.6 ppm, 0.8 ppm, and 1.0 ppm) and using chlorinated tap water as the control. After 72 hours exposure to Captan 50% WP, root growth of Allium cepa was reduced along concentration gradient. Overall results indicate EC50 value of 0.8511 ppm. According to the overall data, tested fungicide Captan 50% WP can be concluded as toxic, but further acute and chronic evaluation must be conducted to determine its exact lethality.
Seasonal variation of water quality parameters in the Embilikala lagoon in the Bundala national park of Sri Lanka
(University of Peradeniya,Sri Lanka, 2020-10-23) Madushani,K.P.K.; Amarasinghe, M.D.
The Bundala National Park (BNP), the first Ramsar wetland in Sri Lanka, is an important wintering ground for migratory birds. The Embilikala lagoon, one of the three key lagoons in BNP, is affected by the upstream irrigation systems and also recently subjected to the extensive distribution of Typha angustifolia. This study is aimed to inquire the seasonal variation of water quality in the Embilikala lagoon. Water samples were randomly collected from ten sampling locations throughout the lagoon, twice in both dry and wet seasons during 2018/19. Conductivity and pH were measured using Sension+ MM150 Portable Multi-Parameter while nitrate-nitrogen (NO3-–N), ammonia-nitrogen (NH3–N), total nitrogen (TN), total reactive phosphorus (TRP), and total phosphorus (TP) were measured using spectrophotometric methods. Data were statistically analyzed using IBM SPSS 22 software. Differences in water quality in the two seasons ware analyzed using independent sample t-test at a 95% confidence level. Higher concentrations of NO3–-N (323.3±66.5 μg/L), NH3–N (243.3±66.5 μg/L), TN (900.0±40.0 μg/L), conductivity (895.83±89.1 μS/cm), and pH (8.59±0.13) were recorded in the wet season than in the dry season NO3–- N(300.0±69.2 μg/L), NH3–N(230.0±60.8 μg/L), TN(540.0±101.4 μg/L), conductivity(0.39±0.03 μS/cm), and pH( 7.98±0.14). TN, pH and conductivity were significantly different (p<0.05) in the two seasons. Most of the parameters were higher in wet season because of increased surface runoff, sand bar breaching and mixing up the seawater with lagoon water. Higher phosphorus levels in the dry season are related to the upstream agricultural activities with 56% of its total phosphorus is being measured with reactive phosphorous. This study provides an insight into the present status of the Embilikala lagoon and further work is needed for a comprehensive evaluation of water quality dynamics and the impact of the external water and nutrient inputs on the flora of the lagoon.
Study the anthropogenic activities that accelerate soil erosion: a case study in Wewere GND in Minipe DSD, the Kandy district
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2020-10-23) Danasekara, D.R.A.K.
Soil erosion is one of the natural hazards of the world. However, recently soil erosion has accelerated because of anthropogenic activities. The Wewere GND is selected for this study as there was high consumption of land for agriculture. The main objective of this study is to identify the anthropogenic activities that accelerate soil erosion. The methodology of the research was mixed method under the human ecological approach. Hence to achieve the target, the Wewere GND was divided in to 7 land units according to the types of human activities in the area and 1 kg of soil was obtained at a depth of 8 cm from each of the7 land units through the simple random sampling. Laboratory and field experiments, direct interviews, field observation, and questionnaire survey techniques were used to collect primary data while secondary data were obtained from relevant government institutions. The quantitative and qualitative data were analyzed under statistical and descriptive data analyze methods. The results were represented with maps using Arc GIS 10.3 software and charts, graphs, tables using MS Excel. The soil particle sizes were determined using 2 fractions of 2 mm sieved soil obtained by extracting 100 g of soil from each of the soil samples. . The fraction which is more than 2 mm (+ 2mm) is selected as results of each samples. Sub forest represented 4.82 %, crop cultivation represented 41.36% of soil particles (+2 mm). The result substantiated high soil erosion was represented in crop cultivation (41.36%) due to the human activity and less was represented in sub forest (4.82 %). The mismanagement of land, improper land use, and lack of knowledge are the causes of accelerated soil erosion in the area. Vegetative method, structural method, management practices and awareness programs should be executed to the conservation of soil erosion in the research area. The management of agricultural systems must be carried on the sustainable approach and related authorities should pay attention to minimize soil erosion.
Improper chemical usage and poor waste management practices in small scale jewellery sector of Sri Lanka
(University of Peradenia,Sri Lanka, 2020-10-23) Silva, A.D.C. de; Rubasinghe, T.M.; Manthrirathne, M.A.N.C.; Wewegedara, W.G.C.N.; Diyabalanage, R.S.; Jayasinghe, R.M.N.P.K.; Dharmaratne,T.S.
Sri Lankan jewellery manufacturing industry mainly functions as a small-scale business or as a cottage industry. Though the output is a fascinating product, a considerable amount of carcinogenic, hazardous and harmful chemicals are used in the industry. This study evaluated the chemical usage and waste management practices in Small Scale Jewellery Sector (SSJS) of. In Sri Lanka SSJS is mostly confined to Colombo, Gampaha, Kandy, Badulla, Jaffna, Galle, Matara and Hambanthota districts. This study was conducted through a structured interview and a questionnaire survey among 345 goldsmiths from these districts. It was found that concentrated Nitric acid, concentrated Sulphuric acid, Cadmium-Gold alloy, Potassium Cyanide, Potassium Nitrate, and Mercury are extensively used without any safety precautions. During the process most of these chemicals are heated in open air to high temperatures of about 1100 oC using wind blowing furnaces, which leads to vaporization of chemicals and subsequent mixing with air. In addition, chemical wastes are directly discharged into drainage systems or natural water bodies without proper chemical waste treatment. This improper usage and discharge of chemicals may cause severe environmental problems and serious health issues. Main cause behind this issue is that over 70% of the goldsmiths working in the industry have only studied up to the Ordinary Level or less, so they have little knowledge on the harmful effects of ill-use of chemicals. Very poor ventilation facilities were found in 60% of the inspected workshops, thus increasing the susceptibility of exposure to toxic vapors. An average person engaged in SSJS works around 10 hours per day and 6 days per week. This extended working period with poor level of health and safety measures within the workshops expose them to high workplace risk. We suggest to carry out a bio-monitoring investigation to assess the exposure levels and health impacts of the community engaged in the industry.
Transformation of ancient water retention mechanisms: a comparative study of two micro-cascades
(University of Peradeniya,Sri Lanka, 2020-10-23) Kahathuduwa,P.; Prasada, D.V.P.
In water scarce land use systems, the water security was ensured historically by tank cascade systems. Because of various reasons like technological advancements, infrastructure advancement, social and political issues, and change of livelihoods, with time these cascade systems have undergone partial or full abandonment. This study evaluates how the land use, water use, and the economic well-being of the water users have changed over a period of 20 years using a cross sectional farmer and land- use survey. Our approach is a comparative analysis of two micro cascades that lie side by side in a single agro-ecosystem. The aim is to explain the historical transition of two micro-cascades of nearly equal water holding capacity in two different trajectories. The two micro cascades are Mahakanumulla and Ulagalla within the Thirappane system. The survey reveals that even though the connections among the tanks that belong to each micro-cascade still remain intact in both systems, the water holding capacity of Ulagalla cascade as a whole has reduced. In Ulagalla system, the water holding capacity is reduced by half of its initial capacity (i.e., 40 years ago). The main reasons reported by farmers are siltation, abandonment, land use conversion, and invasive species. Due to the reduction of the water holding capacity, paddy cultivated areas within the command area have reduced, especially in Yala season. Based on the farmer response, we find that the gradual abandonment in Ulagalla is due to socio economic transition. For instance, with the establishment of the A9 road though Ulagalla system, financial value of the lands has risen substantively, compelling villagers to sell their land to outsiders who have abandoned conventional land uses. In comparison, Mahakanumulla does not shown such changes due to the greater distance from the A9 route. Overall, the comparative study reveals that external factors can push a microcascade away from agricultural and cascade driven land uses within a period as short as 40 years.
Corporate disclosures on carbon emissions in Sri Lankan public listed insurance companies
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2020-10-23) Nuskiya, M.N.F.; Ekanayake, E.M.A.S.B.
Carbon emission is considered as one of the root causes for global warming, which has become the most significant environmental challenge to be addressed at present not only by corporates but also by society as a whole. Because of the increase in corporate understanding of environmental responsibilities and increased investors’ demand on corporate legitimacy stimulated companies to disclose carbon emissions voluntarily. However, there is an inconsistency in the extent of corporate disclosures on carbon emissions among companies across periods. Insurance companies appears to be the first industry to disclose carbon emissions around the world. This study aims to investigate trends of Corporate Disclosures on Carbon Emissions. More specifically, it examines whether the disclosure practice on carbon emissions affects the value of Sri Lankan public listed insurance companies to assist investors to evaluate a company’s legitimacy towards environment and society. There is a need to conduct such a study as the ultimate objective of investors to maximize their wealth. This study follows a quantitative approach with a sample of 8 Sri Lankan public insurance companies out of a population of 10 public listed insurance companies listed in the Colombo Stock Exchange of Sri Lanka. This sample selection was based on the companies that existed during the entire period of the study (2012 – 2018). Longitudinal secondary data were collected on the independent variable (i.e., disclosure on carbon emissions), the dependent variable (i.e., firm value), and control variables (i.e., firm size and profitability) from annual reports of the seven financial years. A disclosure score was developed using dummy variables to measure disclosure practices to determine the impact on the firm value, which was measured by market capitalization using statistical techniques of correlation analysis and multiple regression model along with control variables. The findings suggest that the level of disclosure was showing a statistically significant weak positive correlation with firm value. Regression analysis results indicate that there is statistical evidence to prove that carbon disclosures positively impact the firm value. Further, annual average disclosures on carbon emissions of insurance companies display a marginal increase over seven years. Based on such findings, it can be concluded that in the Sri Lankan context, though the insurance companies voluntarily disclose the firm value of the company it is affected by disclosures on carbon emissions.
Corporate sustainability reporting: a review of literature
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2020-10-23) Soysa,R.N.K.; Pallegedara, A.; Jayasena,D.M.
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) comprising 169 targets for 17 global goals have been developed to meet urgent environmental, social, and economic challenges faced by all nations. This study is based on target 6 of the SDG Goal 12: “encourage companies to adopt sustainable practices and to integrate sustainability information into their reporting cycle”. Sustainability reporting has become an important topic among business communities as a means of communicating their sustainability performance on achieving global SDGs. The purpose of this paper is to contribute to the discourse on corporate sustainability reporting practices by reviewing existing literature. This paper provides a review of more than 40 articles extracted from online databases such as Emerald Insights, Science Direct and Google Scholar, from 2005 to 2019 and are presented in academic journals related to various disciplines such as Accounting, Environmental Science and Economics. Based on previous literature, firm size, financial performance, environmental and social performance, ownership structure, corporate visibility, sector affiliation and legal requirements are considered to be determinants of sustainability reporting (SR) by firms. Firms that are pressurized by environmental authorities and consumers have higher quality of sustainability reporting than other firms. Although firms as a whole strive to achieve sustainability, it was revealed that mostly the senior management has a positive attitude towards SR than the lower-level management. Firm’s growth indicators have been moderately affected by SR practices and some studies have concluded that it has a lower capacity of integration within the decision-making process. However, in the Sri Lankan context, it was revealed that firms have a lower level of compliance with Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) guidelines as a standard sustainability reporting framework. Further, literature reveal that firms are more concerned on the social indicators than environmental indicators. This study concludes that policy makers should encourage firms to comply with global environmental standards and guidelines.
International maritime law on managing environmental issues: with special reference to Indian Ocean
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2020-10-23) Premarathna, P.K.B. Isuru
Environmental conservation and management are considered very important concepts in the recent world, where the importance of maritime security and maritime law are major factors. One of the major problems facing the Indian Ocean at present is managing environmental issues. As the research sample, the major countries in the Indian Ocean, India, Sri Lanka and Maldives were studied. The objectives of this research are the identification and study of current marine environmental issues in the Indian Ocean. In addition, study the procedures adopted for the management of environmental issues following international maritime law for current marine conservation. The research problem of this study is to identify the current maritime environmental issues in the Indian Ocean, and environmental management process in the Indian Ocean territory and its major states are under the protection of natural maritime security. This study is qualitative in nature while using both primary and secondary data. To collect primary data, a sample of 30 people has been used in the fields of government, academic, military and other professionals. Secondary data and the main sources of data collection include journal articles, reports, reviews etc. According to the research, at the present, the maritime security has a major impact and there are serious concerns about natural resources and their management. Basically, climate change and environmental degradation, unregulated exploitation of marine resources, impact on mangrove ecosystems, damage to marine resources and exposure to petroleum are also challenges faced today. Furthermore, among the marine issues, coral reef pollution, land runoff, dredging, NOx and SOx, Ocean acidification, rise of sea level, pollution from ships. Today, maritime security and its law have a broader role within the United Nations (UNCLOS) and basically IMO. Marine environmental pollution- updating the environmental protection act and the IMO have undertaken a number of legal enforcement on maritime issues. Thus, use of new maritime-friendly technologies can be identified as a fundamental international maritime legal reform. Conclusion of the research, at the present maritime problems are raging in the Indian Ocean region. Furthermore, to address the environmental issues, Legal reforms are needed while there are strong legal disclosures in the IMO, it is clear that it is not enough in the Indian Ocean region.
Effective curbing with crowdsourcing for sustainable sand mining, transport and regulation in Sri Lanka
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2020-10-23) Weerakoon,W.M.H.G.T.C.K.; Bandula,W.G.S.; Kokila,W.G.S.
Raw materials of construction, such as sand should be extracted in a sustainable manner, so in Sri Lanka the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau (GSMB) imposes Laws and Regulations to maintain sustainability in sand extraction. Because of the high consumption miners try illegal means of extraction and transportation bypassing the law. Considering this, GSMB took initiatives to digitize licensing lifecycle with Mining and Mineral Production (mmPro) solution, a mobile and cloud-based information system that allows recording sand dispatches by the mining license owners directly from their site using mobile application or SMS. Meanwhile anyone including the general public, police officers, GSMB enforcement unit are permitted to check any lorry, anywhere by giving only a lorry number via mobile application or SMS. This study was carried out to assess the progress of the mmPro pilot run and to acknowledge the stakeholders of the sand mining industry on promising feasibility of mmPro for industry sustainability. During this study, the data prior to mmPro were analyzed and compared against the data generated from mmPro, thereby the conclusions were drawn. According to the data prior to mmPro at GSMB, a 50% disparity between the sand consumption and production from 2014-2018 can be traced, which means sand had been extracted through illegal means without being traceable by GSMB. Then with the mmPro’s pilot rollout at Sri Lanka’s largest river sand mining site in Manampitiya, Polonnaruwa shows impactful results in sustainable raw material extraction, dispatch and utilization by managing dispatch of more than 400 Lorries per day without missing any of them. Hence, mmPro’s pilot rollout shows impactful results in sustainable raw material extraction, dispatch and utilization.
Spatial and temporal patterns of the human-Elephant conflict in Welikanda, Polonnaruwa
(University of Peradeniya,Sri Lanka, 2020-10-23) Aathika, H.B.N.
Wildlife areas in Welikanda are becoming narrower and isolated by the surrounding areas of human settlements under the Mahaweli settlement project, which increased the Human-Elephant Conflict (HEC). To promote the co-existence between humans and elephants, number of management measures are taking place. Through this study, we analyzed the occurrences of HEC and explored the spatial and temporal factors that influence HEC. The study was conducted using a 3-year dataset from 2016-2019, 60 questionnaires and 6 interviews. The transformation of forested areas into agricultural lands and human settlements play a major role in increasing in HEC. Most of the remaining forest patches in the Mahaweli project areas are disconnected and encroached by people. The study shows that HEC is very severe in the surrounding areas of the Welikanda corridor. HEC in this area is considered as highest as these areas were seasonal route of elephants and now they are encroached and fragmented by human activities. Furthermore, it is found that the crop riding and property damage by elephants are most frequent and high soon after the harvesting seasons of Yala and Maha and mostly between 6.00 p.m. and 7.00 a.m. The farmers in the surrounding areas of the Welikanda corridor and the elephants are the victims of this conflict. To manage HEC successfully in Welikanda, we should consider migration routes of elephants, forest patches occupied, diurnal and seasonal variation in elephant’s movement and human activities in the conflict hotspots. Moreover, the Department of Wildlife Conservation and Mahaweli Authority should work together in development activities in wilderness areas. To reduce the HEC in a productive way, we should conserve the existing elephant habitats, corridors and link habitat patches using new corridors, and should improve the awareness among people and use effective management practices etc.
Social responsibility and environmental sustainability in Sri Lanka towards a green country
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2020-10-23) Weerakoan,T.P.; Perera,M.T.C.
Amidst increased emphasis on sustainable development, understanding the sustainability initiatives and practices of the corporate sector has attracted the primary attention of both academia and industry in Sri Lanka. In parallel social responsibility of the corporate sector has been commonly discussed in the national context; nevertheless, practical measures seem rare. Thus, the objective of this study is to focus on the social responsibility of Sri Lankan citizens without limiting the responsibility of the corporate sector. This may contribute to solving several contemporary issues such as deforestation and global warming, which disrupts our daily lifestyles. In order to achieve the above objective, this study used the available literature and carried out a literature review. Results reveal that currently, the country is facing unprecedented heatwaves, human-made environmental disasters (including coastal disasters), deteriorating air quality, and scarcity of drinking water. Furthermore, inadequate measures taken in waste management is another issue found through this study. They are the consequences of ignorance of our social responsibility. Thus, it is imperative to create better awareness programs for citizens of the country regarding social responsibility in the process of transforming the country towards a green concepts- based nation. Unless and until the citizens are aware of their responsibility, this situation would not be any different. Researchers recommend that adding social responsibility for environmental sustainability in school curricula and higher- educational programs with an emphasis on practical applications. In addition, lawmakers should make adequate laws for citizens to comply with the need, and the relevant authorities should be made aware of this timely perceived deficiency, and they should be assigned to monitor the progress.
Investing in water-scarce agricultural systems: a framed decision analysis
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2020-10-23) Muzni,M.; Prasada,D.V.P.
The rain-fed agricultural systems pose limitations on the use of water. In the Sri Lankan Dry zone settings, rain-fed agriculture uses several human-made infrastructures to moderate these limitations. One clear example is the village tank. In this study, a decision analysis is carried out through an experiment which frames the decision to invest in the village tank improvement, village pasture improvement, forest patch improvement, or fish stock improvement. The objective of the study is to identify the tradeoff between private and public gains in a water-scarce setting. The participants in the experiment have to make decisions on the levels of investment as a member of a group of three randomly assigned roles. These roles are paddy farmer, dairy herder and fisherperson. The decision making happens in two stages. The first stage involves investing from a private endowment and the second stage involves investing from a public endowment. From a menu of investment choices that are linked to private and public benefits, participants made choices on how much to invest in each resource from private endowment first and from the residual public endowment sequentially. The findings of the decision analysis from 246 implementations of the experiment reveal several key relationships. Private investments in tank improvement and in pasture improvement are associated positively (P value = 0.001 and 0.016, respectively) with private benefits while investments in forest improvement and fish stock improvement are not significantly related to private benefits on average. The magnitude of partial contribution to private benefit is 1.50 LKR for every rupee invested in tank improvement and 1.36 LKR for every rupee invested in pasture improvement. In contrast, the public benefits are significant only for investments in tank improvement (P value = 0.090). Partial contributions from other three resources to public benefit are not statistically significant. In contrast to private benefits, the magnitude of partial contribution from investments in tank to public benefits is quite low (i.e., 0.49 LKR for every rupee invested in tank improvement). These findings highlight that even in a framing that highlights the connectedness between private and public welfare in tank-based systems, marginal expectations on private gains are approximately three times that of public gains. We conclude that the intensity of private motive hinders the joint improvement of private and public gains in water use.
Evaluation of brachybacterium conglomeratum RUH1 mediated bioremediation of used lubricant oil contaminated soil using allium cepa bioassay
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2020-10-23) Wijesooriya,M.M.; Masakorala,K.; Widana Gamage,S.M.K.
Contamination of soil with Used Lubricant Oil (ULO) has become an emerging environmental threat because of possible negative impacts of ULO on different ecological receptors. Bioremediation has been considered as a green technological approach with a potential to decontaminate ULO contaminated soils. However, bioremediation efficiency and success are species-specific. Further, more toxic compounds might be generated as metabolic intermediates during the biodegradation of ULO. Hence, the reduction of ULO contamination level alone may not be sufficient to assess bioremediation. Therefore, the evaluation of bioremediation by applying bioassay is vitally important. Thus, the aim of the study was to evaluate Brachybacterium conglomeratum RUH1 mediated bioremediation of ULO contaminated soils by applying Allium cepa bioassay. Bioremediation was carried out in laboratory-scale microcosms with 1-5% w/w contamination levels of ULO. At the end of 35 days of experimental time, percentage of ULO biodegradation was calculated and the bioremediated soils and unbioremediated soils taken from the control experiment were used for Allium cepa bioassay. The percentages of Root Elongation Inhibition (REI) and percentages of Chromosomal Aberration (CA) were calculated after 48 hours of incubation in triplicates per each contamination level (n=3). The biodegradation percentages of B. conglomeratum following 35 days at 1- 5% w/w contamination levels of ULO were 77.63, 66.0, 55.55, 50.86, and 41.66, respectively. The calculated percentages of REI in control soils at 1-5% w/w contamination levels of ULO were 29.81, 42.79, 71.15, 75.96, and 81.0, respectively and in bioremediated soils were 18.27, 41.83, 43.27, 49.52, and 59.89, respectively. Further, the calculated percentages of CA in control soils were, 2.50, 3.75, 5.0, 6.50, and 7.25 and in bioremediated soils were 1.0, 1.50, 2.25, 3.0, and 3.50, respectively. Thus, the overall results of bioassay showed the contamination level dependent phytotoxicity and genotoxicity. Therefore, results infer the applicability of Allium cepa bioassay for the evaluation of B. conglomeratum RUH1 mediated bioremediation of used lubricant oil.

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