Analysis on Deforestation and Environmental Law in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Ever since human starts to walk in the earth they had a close relationship with the forest and their daily essentials were provided by the forest. But due to the expansion of civilization, forest lands were destroyed for agricultural purposes, development projects and for timber. Gradually human distant themselves from forests due the technological development they achieved and pay less attention to the protection of forests. Therefore deforestation rate increased. As an island nation and a biologically hot spot, Sri Lanka had to face the environmental issue, “deforestation”. From the beginning of this nation there were rules and regulations relating to the protection of forests. Though there are laws relating to environmental protection somehow deforestation has become a major environmental issue in the country due to its implication on biodiversity, water cycle, carbon cycle, etc. This research is carry out to examine “whether laws relating to deforestation are adequate to control the rate of deforestation?” Objectives of this research are to analyze the international and domestic laws prevailing in the country and to examine whether they are adequate enough to mitigate this issue, Environmental impact of deforestation and finally to recommend solutions by referring into measures taken by other countries. This research would employ a quantitative analysis of primary sources and secondary sources. Primary sources would include conventions, case laws and secondary sources would include textbooks, journal articles and other electronic resources.