Julie Chung invites Aquaman star Jason to explore Sri Lanka’s environmental efforts 

The Daily FT on 14 February in the front page featured the story about Sri Lanka getting global recognition by UN for rebuilding mangrove ecosystems (see https://www.ft.lk/front-page/Sri-Lanka-gets-global-recognition-by-UN-for-rebuilding-mangrove-ecosystems/44-758433). Here a view of accelerated natural regeneration of mangroves in Anawilundawa Ramsar Sanctuary 

- Pic by Shevyn Marshall at WNPS

• US envoy posts via ‘X’ tagging Hollywood star after he congratulated Sri Lanka for being declared a UN World Restoration Flagship

The US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung has extended a warm invitation to Hollywood actor Jason Momoa, known for his advocacy for environmental conservation, to witness Sri Lanka’s mangrove restoration efforts and explore its vibrant marine ecosystem.

“Hey #JasonMomoa, your admiration and @UNEP support for Sri Lanka’s environmental efforts and using your voice to increase awareness of the urgency to #SaveOurOcean is inspiring! As US Ambassador to Sri Lanka, I invite you to come experience the beauty of Sri Lanka’s mangrove restoration firsthand and dive into the depths of our strong US-Sri Lanka partnership,” she noted via ‘X’ yesterday. 

The Ambassador’s invitation comes hot on the heels of the Aquaman star Momoa congratulating Sri Lanka for being declared a UN World Restoration Flagship, in recognition of the country’s efforts to rebuild and restore its mangrove ecosystems.

In a video statement of the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) Advocate for Life Below Water, he commended the endeavours of the country. 

“As a native Hawaiian, I saw the impacts of climate change first hand this year, the devastating lines of fires. We urgently need to revive the health of our lands, the coasts and oceans. After the tsunami, the island of Sri Lanka had to build back, and they did it using the power of nature as a solution versus fighting against it. I want to celebrate Sri Lanka for its recognition as the UN World Restoration Flagship. In the country, citizens and partners are working together to naturally generate 10,000 hectares of mangrove forest by 2030 to fortify the coastline. Congratulations, Sri Lanka. Mahalo for working together to create positive change. You are the example. All my Aloha,” Mamosa said.

Expressing admiration for Momoa’s commitment to UNEP causes, Ambassador Chung underscored the invitation for the Auqaman star to dive into the crystal-clear waters and explore mesmerising shipwrecks along the Sri Lankan coast.

“Ready to trade the depths of Atlantis for the crystal waters and mesmerising shipwrecks off the coast of Sri Lanka? #VisitSriLanka #YoullComeBackForMore (video credit: @UNSriLanka),” she added.

With the hashtags #VisitSriLanka and #YoullComeBackForMore, the Ambassador’s message underscored Sri Lanka Tourism taglines to explore the country firsthand. 

On 14 February the Daily FT reported that Sri Lanka is being declared as a UN World Restoration Flagship, in recognition of the nation’s vital efforts to rebuild and restore its mangrove ecosystems. 

The UN Flagship Restoration Award is a timely recognition of Sri Lanka’s viable, lasting solutions towards the restoration of these essential ecosystems which support countless lives and livelihoods across the island. Sri Lanka is slated to receive the award at the United Nations Environmental Assembly which will be held in Nairobi on 27 February 2024. 

The Wildlife and Nature Protection Society (WNPS) said the award signifies the nation’s effective use of the UN’s Principles for ecosystem restoration, while highlighting globally significant best practices and methodologies that can potentially serve as a framework for future success across the world.