environmentally sensitive areas

EFL is working with IUCN on an integral component of the UNDP-Ministry of Mahaweli Development & Environment project on enhancing biodiversity conservation and sustenance of ecosystem services in environmentally sensitive areas (ESA). A large number of ESAs are not afforded legal protection and hence not taken into consideration in developmental planning. One such area is the ecologically important Kala Oya river basin. The basin plays a vital role in water purification, water retention and regulation of floods. It is a critical link for migration of