Hayleys Fentons launches “Roots of Resilience” program to restore Bolgoda River’s mangroves

Glimpse into the Roots of Resilience program 

Hayleys Fentons Ltd. celebrated the inauguration of the “Roots of Resilience” biodiversity conservation program. 

This significant endeavour was carried out in collaboration with the Government of Sri Lanka and the Department of Coast Conservation and Coastal Resource Management (CCCRMD).

The “Roots of Resilience” biodiversity conservation program aims to reinstate the vital mangrove ecosystem in the Bolgoda River. 

CCCRMD Director General R.A.S. Ranawaka said: “Mangroves are highly productive but extremely vulnerable ecosystems found in the intertidal zone of coastal environments, including lagoons. In Sri Lanka’s Coastal Zone and Coastal Resource Management Plan (CZ&CRMP), mangroves are listed as one of the most important coastal habitats. Hayleys Fentons Ltd.’s “Roots of Resilience” is closely aligned with the country’s goals for mangrove protection and restoration, as replanting schemes are one of the CZ&CRMP’s core actions. 

Mangroves act as large filters, removing pollutants, excess nutrients, and sediment from inland municipal and industrial wastewater, as well as stormwater run-off. The planting of 1,000 mangrove saplings will have a major positive impact on the function of the habitat.”

 “As this initiative also combats climate change effects on the habitat, it will improve ecosystem services, providing additional benefits to local fishermen communities through increased natural production. Community participation, public awareness, and close monitoring of progress are critical for the success and sustainability of the project’s five-year plan.”

Hayleys Fentons Ltd. Managing Director Hasith Prematillake said: “By undertaking this initiative, we wish to take meaningful action to benefit our valuable local environment while contributing to the global effort in preserving biodiversity and combating climate change, leaving a positive impact for the future generation.”

Hayleys Fentons Ltd. CEO Sujith De Alwis said: “We understand the critical role that biodiversity conservation plays in ensuring the sustainability of our planet. Fully aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the “Roots of Resilience” initiative has a wide-ranging effect. Through mangrove replanting, it is anticipated to counteract climate change by removing 5.9 tonnes of atmospheric carbon per year. Furthermore, within two years, the preserved and regenerated mangrove ecosystems will support regional fisheries, promoting a robust ecosystem.”

Hayleys Fentons Ltd. Director Finance and custodian of ESG efforts Pamudith Gunawardana said: “This endeavour is a critical step towards enhancing biodiversity conservation and contributing to ecosystem restoration. Specifically, the project’s first phase is designated for the banks of the Bolgoda River. We aim to create a resilient environment that benefits both nature and communities.”

Hayleys Fentons Ltd. Assistant General Manager, Compliance and ESG Nisal Liyanage who led the project, explained that every plant in the program has a QR code system. This system allows for biannual data gathering, guaranteeing that every plant’s progress is carefully recorded. Within this monitoring framework, the team will work with the CCCRMD to review the project’s progress, resolve any issues, and improve its future strategy for mangrove conservation projects.

The program aligns with the long-term protection and preservation of biodiversity pledged by Hayleys Fentons Ltd. and parent company Hayleys PLC through its ESG roadmap, the Hayleys Lifecode.