Sri Lanka is one of the most bio-diverse countries in Asia, considered by Conservation International as one of world's 25 biodiversity "hot-spots". Protecting this rich environment for the long-term means training the next generation of environmental stewards. Eco-Friendly Volunteers based in Sri Lanka runs a number of programmes for youth and kids to expand their thinking & positive behavior change is encouraged by having "Eco Gardens", places for urban Bio-diversity conservation and learning.
Our focus for combating climate change is different from this approach. We have climate change campaigns called "Future Green Leaders" where we work with youth and kids to make them understand that we as human are only part of the one living system and we must change our thinking style towards Eco centric actions rather than being Ego Centric. To achieve this we have programmes for youth and kids and changing their thinking behavior is encouraged by having "Eco Gardens".
Youth and kids get training within this Eco Garden & get inspired what they see at urban setup. We started this in September 2013 and already obtained the organic Participatory Guarantee system certificate for Eco garden. There were 6 species of butterflies in the area when we started the Eco Garden in 2013 but now we have 59 species recorded so far. Fortunately we were able to buy the adjacent piece of land which we are expecting to expand Eco garden activities into 455 square meters.
We hope to inspire the next generation of environmental and climate leaders in Sri Lanka who will work to protect the precious biodiversity of our country.