Blog – Page 2 – Department of Forestry and Environmental Science

3Jan

Completion of the Innovation Commercialization and Enhancement Grant

(Funded By The World Bank)

Department of Forestry and Environmental Science received the certificate from AHED operation for the successful completion of the World Bank-funded Rs. 40 million grant in “innovation commercialization and enhancement” on 15^th December 2023 at the Kingsbury Hotel, Colombo.

In 2018, the Center for Sustainability of the Department of Forestry and Environmental Science submitted a research proposal. This program aimed to foster research-based innovation for developing value-added products from laterite soils in Sri Lanka and to enhance activities at the Center for Sustainability. The comprehensive research efforts were carried out within the Department of Forestry and Environmental Science laboratory facilities. Prof. Daham Jayawardana led the coordination of these activities, with the collaborative support of team members, including Prof. Priyan Perera, Prof. Nilanthi Bandara, Prof. Pathmalal Manage, and Dr. Varuni Jayasooriya.

The grant has been concluded successfully, resulting in four local patents, numerous research publications, nature-based documentaries, and the completion of Dr. Sandali Dissanayake’s PhD degree within this program. Certain innovations have been successfully commercialized, and corresponding products are currently accessible in the market, with additional plans for commercialization in the future. Furthermore, several laboratory facilities were established as part of this program, including the renovation of the new Center for Sustainability building and improvements to the Yagirala Forest Research and Conservation Education Center facilities.

30Nov

Field Trips

Geology and soil studies in south and south-west coastal belt of Sri Lanka

Prof. Daham Jayawardana led a field trip for 2nd-year undergraduates to explore the geology and soil in south and south-west coastal belt.

The highlights included, soil excavation site in Godagama, Palatuwa, students delved into soil layers gaining hands-on experience in understanding soil composition and history. Basement rock weathering at Hambantota beach to study witnessing basement rock weathering at Hambantota Beach near the Governor’s House provided insights into the dynamic forces shaping coastal landscapes. Fine-grained heavy mineral observations in Gintota has been observed. Students explored Gintota, identifying and analyzing fine-grained heavy minerals, contributing to a deeper understanding of geological processes.

Studying significant environmental sites provided a holistic view of geological contributions to the broader landscape. Connecting geology, soil science, and environmental science promoted a comprehensive understanding of Earth’s interconnected systems.

29Nov

Field Trips

Fieldtrip to Galgamuwa to study the agroforestry and social forestry

A field trip to the Galgamuwa area has been coordinated by Department of Forestry and Environmental Science for the purpose of exploring agroforestry and social forestry systems, led by Professor Hemanthi Ranasinghe. Furthermore, the field survey facilitated the examination of above-ground biomass calculations. Students gained valuable practical experiences through active participation in the field survey.

31Oct

Field Trips

Forest mensuration and inventory at Inamaluwa forest plantation, Dambulla

In a comprehensive field visit organized for the 1^st year undergraduates of the Department of Forestry and Environmental Science, students delved into practical aspects of Forest Mensuration and Inventory.

Under the guidance of Prof. Upul Subasinghe, Day 01 featured lectures on plantation specifics and detailed methodologies for the upcoming field class. Students actively engaged in demarcating sample plots, tree numbering, and measurements of diameter at breast height (dbh) and total height. The day extended to activities like taking plot coordinates, tree crown measurements, etc.

Day 02 centered on Stand Basel Area measurements, data analysis and preparation for group presentations, offering students a well-rounded experience in practical fieldwork and scientific analysis. The day culminated in informative and engaging group presentations, showcasing the students’ newfound knowledge and skills.

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