This Policy provides for the framework for sustainable development of Forestry sector in Sri Lanka. The objectives include conservation of forests, afforestation, increasing productivity of forests and enhancing the contribution of forestry to the welfare of the rural population. The policies on management of state forest resources, private forests and tree resources. Further, policies regarding wood and non-wood forest products, industries and marketing, institutional support for forestry development, inter-sectoral linkages, and international forestry-related conventions are provided. The strategies for policy implementations are: 1. Promotion of sustainable land use for forestry; 2. Development of private forest and tree resources; 3. Policy support on forest products, industries and marketing; 4. Institutional Development; and 5. Inter-sectoral linkages. The Policy adopts a conservation-first strategy aimed at safeguarding the country's remaining natural forests, biodiversity, soil and water resources. The creation of a Permanent Forest Estate is proposed, where forests are classified into different management categories ranging from strictly protected conservation forests to multiple-use forests and plantation forests. The policy promotes sustainable forest management through zoning, management plans, environmental safeguards, biodiversity conservation, watershed protection, rehabilitation of degraded forest lands, and stronger protection against illegal logging. The Policy highlights the need for participatory and partnership-based model. It encourages local communities, farmers, NGOs, and local forest industries to play a greater role in forest management and protection of forest resources. The development and maintenance of home gardens and agroforestry systems are strategies to fulfil the long term goals of the Policy. The policy also emphasizes institutional reforms, legislative updates, research, training, intersectoral coordination, sustainable forest industries, eco-tourism, public awareness, and alignment with international environmental commitments to ensure long-term forestry sector sustainability.
Sri Lanka · 1995-11-01