June 2026

21st June 2026
The Lanka Mangrove Museum and Learning Center conducted a community shramadana (voluntary cleaning program) today to protect and maintain the beauty of the mangrove ecosystem surrounding the museum.
As part of this initiative, the museum team came together to clean the mangrove environment and remove waste materials that could negatively affect this valuable coastal ecosystem. The program highlighted the importance of keeping natural habitats clean and preserving the health of mangrove forests.
The cleaning activities received support from the Chilaw (Halawatha) Pradeshiya Sabha, assisted by collecting and removing the gathered waste from the area.
The Lanka Mangrove Museum and Learning Center appreciates the support and cooperation of everyone who contributed to this environmental initiative. Together, through awareness and action, we can continue to protect Sri Lanka’s precious mangrove ecosystems.

A scientific research study focusing on the medicinal and biological potential of mangrove plants has been conducted using samples of Rhizophora mucronata, one of the important mangrove species found in Sri Lanka.

As part of this research, leaf and stem samples of Rhizophora mucronata were collected from the Pambala–Chilaw Lagoon area to evaluate their antioxidant properties. The study assessed the antioxidant capacity of methanolic extracts prepared from the leaves and stems of this valuable mangrove species.

Munaikadu Community Members Establish a Mangrove Nursery Following Conservation Workshop 19th June 2026 The Lanka Mangrove Museum and Learning Center is pleased to witness the positive impact of its mangrove conservation training programs, as community members from Munaikadu, Batticaloa, have successfully established a mangrove nursery following a recent workshop conducted by the museum. The workshop

The Lanka Mangrove Museum and Learning Center was honored to welcome Mr. Hamad Al-Jutaili from the State of Kuwait on 19th July 2026.
Mr. Al-Jutaili is a dedicated environmental activist, a specialist in mangrove tree cultivation, a geology expert, and a marine and terrestrial sciences specialist. He has been actively involved in promoting environmental awareness and supporting conservation initiatives, particularly those focused on the protection and restoration of mangrove ecosystems.
During his visit, Mr. Al-Jutaili explored the museum exhibits and gained insights into Sri Lanka’s rich mangrove heritage, conservation efforts, and community-based environmental initiatives. He showed great interest in the educational programs conducted by the museum and engaged in productive discussions with the museum team regarding mangrove conservation, coastal ecosystem protection, and sustainable environmental practices.

Students from the Ocean University of Sri Lanka visited the Lanka Mangrove Museum & Learning Center on 15 June 2026 as part of an educational field study. The group was accompanied by Professor Roshan Perera.

A mangrove awareness and training programme organized by Action Unit was successfully conducted on June 13, 2026, at Madakapuwa with the participation of school students, members of the fishing community, and the staff of Action Unit.

The programme aimed to enhance knowledge and understanding of mangrove ecosystems, their ecological importance, and the need for their conservation. Participants were introduced to the various benefits provided by mangroves, including coastal protection, biodiversity conservation, carbon sequestration, and support for fisheries livelihoods.

A doctoral research scholar from Canada, Ms. Katharina, together with a student from the Ocean University of Sri Lanka, visited the Sri Lanka Mangrove Museum and Learning Centre on June 12, 2026, to conduct an observational study focused on mangrove conservation and eco-tourism.

The primary objective of the visit was to collect data and information for Ms. Katharina’s PhD research, which explores the relationship between mangrove ecosystem conservation and sustainable eco-tourism development. Working in collaboration with the Ocean University of Sri Lanka, the research aims to identify effective ways of protecting mangrove habitats while promoting environmentally responsible tourism opportunities. Canadian Scholar and Ocean University Student Focus on Mangroves and Eco-Tourism for PhD Research

On 5th June, in celebration of World Environment Day, the Centre for Sustainable Solutions (CSS) of the University of Kelaniya visited the Lanka Mangrove Museum and Learning Center to participate in a mangrove restoration programme.

As part of the initiative, students and staff members planted 100 mangrove saplings, contributing to the conservation and restoration of the valuable mangrove ecosystem in the Pambala area. The programme aimed to raise environmental awareness while encouraging active participation in climate action and biodiversity conservation.