WNPS lecture today on “Upcoming challenges in protecting the environment: legally”

Thursday, 16 June 2022 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

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Dr. Jagath Gunawardana

The Wildlife and Nature Protection Society (WNPS) monthly lecture titled “Upcoming challenges in protecting the environment: legally” will be held today at 6 p.m. at the Jasmine Hall, BMICH.

Specialist Dr. Jagath Gunawardana will deliver the lecture and explain and enlighten, both the layperson and even the Lawyer, on the legal means available to all to protect the environment, on a daily basis.

WNPS said there is little practical purpose in just dwelling on the evils of the past without taking action now to try and change all of its ills, and to ensure that they never happen again. This is never more pertinent than in the protection of the environment and of the incredible biodiversity that this land has been blessed with.

Sadly, in recent years, with uncaring and exploitative policymakers in power, and politically controlled State agencies, Sri Lanka’s Courts have become the only trustworthy avenue to try and halt at least some of the destruction. It must, however, be understood that Courts can only rule on the Law and correct any breaches to it.

The challenge ahead is not going to be easy with the present economic crisis, shortages and predicted shortfall in food production, all which will result in inevitable damage to the environment and wildlife. We are seeing an increase in deforestation and an acceleration in poaching, even within protected areas. All this calls for extreme vigilance and commitment from all of us, to protect and preserve the precious little we have.

Dr. Gunawardana is a prominent Environment Lawyer and Lecturer and has decades of experience in the practice of environmental law and litigation. In fact, he was doing this long before most others of his profession had understood the need for it. A Legal Advisor to many environmental organisations, his name is revered in environmental circles and is the one to consult when matters seem particularly dire. Dr. Gunawardena must be listened to by all who care for the future environment of this country; to listen to and learn.

The monthly lecture of the WNPS is supported by the Nations Trust Bank. The lecture will be available on both Zoom and FB live for the benefit of the members who tune in from across the country and the world.