The Contradiction between Sustainable Development and Economic Development: Special Reference to the Colombo Port City Project of Sri Lanka

Abstract

The Colombo port City project is one of the largest investment projects implemented in Sri Lanka. The effect the constructing of the Port city has on the economy is positive. Nevertheless, there are lots of environmental concerns that should be addressed to ensure whether the project is sustainable. The concept of sustainable development has been related throughout this research, to maintain the standard of the economy as well as the protection of the environment. When larger projects are conducted there are particular boundaries and restrictions to protect the environment which is included in The National Environment Act No 47 of 1980, Mines Mineral Act No.33 of 1992, and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Before any construction relating to the environment is in process it should be done according to these rules and regulations which have preferred standard requirements by the relevant authorities. By relating the general principle of sustainable development, the environmental resources could be protected for the future generation. The balance between sustainable development and economic development should be considered when such projects are conducted. The objective of this research is as follows: to distinguish the relationship between the construction of the port city and the concept of sustainable development, legal, non violating environmental recommendations, the legal mechanism specially focuses on the port city before processing the project and the loopholes of the legal system which currently exist relating to the port city project. How sustainable development is achieved by the port cities implemented by developed and developing countries shall be studied and compared in order to ensure the economic and sustainable development outcomes which will be expected from this project. This research is conducted using secondary sources. The paper concludes with observations on the balance between economic development and sustainable development.