Blog – Page 4 – Department of Forestry and Environmental Science

20Jan

29th International Forestry and Environment Symposium

The 29th International Forestry and Environment Symposium, held on 17th and 18th January 2025 in the University Premises, was held under the theme “A Multi-Sectoral Approach to a Sustainable Future,” emphasizing collaborative efforts across diverse sectors to address global challenges and achieve long-term sustainability goals. The symposium sessions delve into various aspects of this theme, presenting research findings across 12 key areas. These include Forest and Natural Resource Management, Biodiversity Conservation and Management, Waste Management and Pollution Control, Environmental Economics and Resource Management, Climate Change and Disaster Management, Biomass and Sustainable Energy, Sustainable Tourism, Sustainable Land Use and Urban Development, Wood Science and Wood Based Industries, Environmental Engineering and Green Technology, Geology, Soil and Water Resource Management, and a Citizen Science Forum. The conference was graced by Prof. Naohiro Goto of the Faculty of Information Networking for Innovation and Design, Toyo University, Japan as the Keynote Speaker. The Symposium was a beneficial platform for 205 abstracts of scientific studies contributed by researchers from both local and international researchers.

23Oct

News

Center for Sustainability Welcomes First International Undergraduate Intern, Nila Mahawela from Germany

The Center for Sustainability (CFS) at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura (USJ) is delighted to welcome Nila Mahawela, an undergraduate student from Germany, as part of its growing global outreach. Nila, who is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in International Forest Ecosystem Management (B.Sc.) at the University for Sustainable Development in Eberswalde, Germany, will be completing a six-month internship with the CFS, marking a significant milestone as the first foreign undergraduate student to join USJ for an internship experience.

Nila’s academic program focuses on sustainable forest ecosystem management, and her decision to intern at CFS reflects her passion for hands-on conservation work. With a strong curiosity about Sri Lanka’s rich rainforest biodiversity and a desire to engage with the practical and legal aspects of conservation management, Nila aims to expand her knowledge and contribute to environmental sustainability efforts.

The CFS is excited to support Nila’s academic and professional development during her time with us, and we look forward to the valuable contributions she will make to our ongoing conservation projects.

31Jul

Field Trips

Wildlife conservation and management at Anawillundawa wetland sanctuary

Dr. Hasitha Karawita, a visiting lecturer, led 3rd-year undergraduate students from the Department of Forestry and Environmental Science on a practical field visit to Anawillundawa Wetland Sanctuary.

The hands-on experience included Transect Sampling, measuring abiotic factors, and becoming acquainted with tools like GPS loggers and densitometer for tree canopy density assessments The students also participated in species identification, including bird watching. To understand species-specific behavior, an ethogram for an individual bird species was constructed. Additionally, the students assessed threats to the ecosystem through stakeholder interviews, rounding off a comprehensive learning experience in wildlife conservation and management practices.

21Jan

Field Trips

Field visit in wood science and timber based industries

On the 19th and 20th of January 2024, the Department of Forestry and Environmental Science organized a two-day field visit for second-year undergraduate students. Under the supervision of Prof Hiran Amarasekara, the students delved into the practical aspects of wood production and forestry operations.

The students’ field visit to A Wood Lanka (Pvt) Ltd was an enlightening experience, providing a firsthand glimpse into the intricate process of transforming raw logs into precisely crafted timber. The exploration of various wood types, including Pine, Rubber, Mahogany, and Eucalyptus, showcased the diversity of materials used in the industry.

At the ICC Timber Flooring Factory, students had the opportunity to examine the manufacturing of prefinished timber planks. The exploration of in-house pressure impregnation treatments.

Moving on to Merbok MDF Lanka (Pvt) Ltd, students not only listened to a comprehensive lecture on the MDF board manufacturing process but also had the privilege of an in-depth exploration during a site visit.

The visit to the State Timber Corporation – Keppitipola focused on the exploration of wood seasoning and impregnation processes, shedding light on crucial steps in the production chain that contribute to the longevity and quality of wood products.

The students concluded their educational journey at the Diyathalawa Logging Site, where they gained firsthand experience in the operations of a logging site. This immersive exposure enabled them to develop a profound understanding of sustainable forestry practices, underlining the industry’s commitment to responsible resource management.

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