Sri Lankan researchers actively participated in the 8th Global Botanic Gardens Congress held at Suntec Convention Center, Singapore, highlighting contributions to biodiversity and urban greening.
Sri Lanka took part in the 8th Global Botanic Gardens Congress, which was held from August 6th to 8th, 2024, at the Suntec Convention Center in Singapore. The event, themed “Botanical Gardens People and Humanity for a Sustainable Future,” marked the first time the congress was hosted in Southeast Asia. The conference brought together approximately 900 delegates representing 75 countries, including botanic garden officials, government and non-government representatives, researchers, postgraduate students, and journalists.
The Singapore Botanic Garden, in partnership with Botanic Gardens International, organised the event. The conference featured scientific and experimental presentations focused on issues such as biodiversity loss, the impact of climate change, and the vital role botanic gardens play in addressing these challenges.
Representing Sri Lanka, Prof. Kapila Yakandawala from Wayamba University, Senior Prof. Deepthi Yakandawala from the University of Peradeniya, and Dr. Achala Attanayake, Director of Technology and Research at Peradeniya Royal Botanic Gardens, made significant contributions. Prof. Kapila Yakandawala introduced the “kalugala ketala” plant from Agalawatta, highlighting its potential to reduce urban heat when grown in concrete construction areas. Senior Prof. Deepthi Yakandawala presented on the “kekatiya” plant, an endemic species found in Horton Plains, and the “kudalu” plant, conserved in Horton Plains and Nuwara Eliya. Dr. Achala Attanayake discussed the role of botanic gardens in managing plant weeds.
During the congress, the Sri Lankan researchers met with High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Singapore, Mr. Senarath Dissanayake, to explore potential collaborations between the Peradeniya Royal Botanic Garden and the National Botanic Gardens of Singapore. Discussions also included seeking Singapore’s assistance in advancing urban greening research in Sri Lanka.
In conjunction with the congress, the ‘Singapore Garden Festival’ was also held in conjunction with the 8th Global Botanic Garden Conference.
SEO Keywords:
Sri Lanka, Global Botanic Gardens Congress, August 2024, Suntec Convention Center, Singapore, Botanical Gardens, biodiversity, climate change, urban greening, Peradeniya Royal Botanic Garden, National Botanic Gardens of Singapore, Prof. Kapila Yakandawala, Senior Prof. Deepthi Yakandawala, Dr. Achala Attanayake, Senarath Dissanayake, kalugala ketala, kekatiya, kudalu, Horton Plains, Nuwara Eliya, Singapore Garden Festival.
Source: High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore
