Climate change, as defined by various international organizations, refers to long-term shifts in temperatures, weather patterns, and the alteration of the composition of the global atmosphere. Sri Lanka, situated in the Indian Ocean, faces the consequences of climate change due to its wet and warm climate, which was once covered by lush forests that have largely been cleared over the last century, leading to landslides, floods, and droughts.
Sri Lanka has established multiple ministries and legal regulations to mitigate climate change impacts. However, the country’s vulnerability to climate change, as ranked by the ND-GAIN index, remains a significant concern.
Climate change impacts in Sri Lanka manifest as extreme weather events, such as heavy rainfall and flash floods, as well as long-term issues like drought and sea-level rise. These impacts are influenced by exposure, vulnerability, and coping capacity, with the country experiencing threats to human security in areas like health, economics, politics, food, environment, and community.
Resource extraction competition and livelihood insecurity are key challenges in Sri Lanka, as climate change and conflict intensify competition for limited resources, affecting agriculture and herding. Additionally, volatile food prices and provision disrupt food production, resulting in increased food prices, economic instability, and health insecurity.
Addressing climate change requires a shift in public mindsets and cultures, and although the Sri Lankan government has taken steps to mitigate climate change impacts, there is a need for aligning strategies with international standards and increased law enforcement to protect vulnerable populations. Ultimately, tackling the climate change crisis demands collective efforts, beyond institutional reforms, to adapt and build resilience in the face of these challenges.
