Independent Validation Confirms Mangrove Survival and Carbon Sequestration Rates

Hayleys Fentons Limited has reported steady progress in the “Roots of Resilience” Mangrove Reforestation Project, launched in partnership with the Coastal Conservation and Coastal Resource Management Department (CCCRMD) in November 2023.

The initiative aims to restore degraded mangrove habitats along the Bolgoda Lake shoreline and strengthen climate resilience through ecological restoration.

1,000 Rhizophora apiculata propagules were planned for establishment across four identified sites: Kaduruduwa, Kiraladuwa, Moratuwa New Bridge, and the Coastal Conservation Office. To date, 1,300 propagules have successfully survived, exceeding the original target and highlighting the resilience of the restoration effort.

These efforts are part of the company’s Biodiversity Conservation and Preservation Strategy, aimed at enhancing shoreline stability and increasing carbon sequestration potential.

An independent field verification was recently conducted by SGS Lanka (Pvt) Ltd, which included site inspections, random sampling, and plant growth assessments. The review confirmed that the surviving mangroves are currently sequestering approximately 7.6 metric tonnes of CO₂-equivalent, with the potential to reach 11.2 metric tonnes upon full maturity.

In parallel, the project has advanced its community engagement aspect. Multilingual information boards have been installed to communicate the ecological value of mangroves and to promote community responsibility in safeguarding these sensitive ecosystems.

A school outreach programme has also been introduced to promote environmental awareness among youth. To date, three awareness sessions have been held at Panadura Sumangala Boys’ College, Panadura Sumangala Balika Vidyalaya, and Panadura Agamethi Balika Vidyalaya, engaging over 270 students. The programme will continue at the rate of one school per month.

Hasith Prematillake, Managing Director of Hayleys Fentons Limited, highlighted: “The Roots of Resilience project demonstrates how targeted corporate action can support ecosystem restoration and local communities. By restoring critical mangrove areas, we are contributing to climate resilience and biodiversity conservation in a measurable way.”

Pamudith Gunawardana, Director and Chief Financial Officer and Chair of the ESG Steering Committee at Hayleys Fentons Limited commented: “The Mangrove Restoration Project represents our commitment to integrating sustainability into the core of our operations. The outcomes reaffirm that effective environmental action also strengthens community resilience and supports sustainable livelihoods. This initiative reflects our belief that corporate responsibility must go beyond compliance and translate into action that safeguards the future.”

Nisal Liyanage, Deputy General Manager, Group Compliance and ESG, Hayleys Fentons Limited, stated: “We continue to work closely with the CCCRMD to monitor growth, address challenges, and enhance the project’s long-term impact. Through regular assessments and transparent reporting, we aim to ensure lasting environmental and social value.”

To learn more about the Roots of Resilience project and other sustainability initiatives of Hayleys Fentons Limited, visit www.hayleysfentons.com or contact 0112 102 102.