University of Sri Jayewardenepura: Journals & Proceedings
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A Multi-sector Approach for a Sustainable Future - The Role of the Banking Sector
No full textAchieving a sustainable future requires a cohesive multi-sector approach, where the banking sector can play a pivotal role in driving environmental and social sustainability. Banks have the unique ability to influence diverse economic activities across industries, shaping responsible practices and supporting the transition to a more resilient and inclusive future. As key enablers of economic growth, banks can create a profound indirect impact through their lending practices. By embedding Environmental and Social Risk Management (ESRM) into financing decisions, banks can ensure that projects align with local regulations, international conventions, and industrial best practices such as the International Finance Corporation (IFC) Performance Standards. Financing can be directed toward initiatives that prioritize resource efficiency, circular economy models, and green innovations, avoiding high-risk activities that could lead to environmental degradation or social harm. The banking sector can also play a vital role in mitigating the risks of climate change and biodiversity loss. By integrating environmental, social and climate risk assessments into decision-making, banks can promote resilience and ensure compliance with principles such as “Do No Significant Harm to the environment”. Resource conservation/ energy saving can be integral to this approach, fostering environmental stability and reducing long-term risks. Banks collaboration with other industries, regulators, and other financial institutions can promote established sustainable practices, creating shared frameworks / level playing field for risk assessment and management. Rigorous monitoring and transparent reporting aligned with global standards like the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), Integrated reporting (IR), Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) General Requirements for Disclosure of Sustainability-related Financial Information and Climate-related Disclosures etc. enable stakeholders to track progress and hold institutions accountable. Through a multi-sectoral approach, banks can act as catalysts for sustainable development, influencing industries, governments, and communities to adopt responsible and sustainable practices. By integrating environmental and social considerations into their operations and financing, the banking sector fosters resilience, inclusivity, and long-term sustainability across all sectors, driving the collective pursuit of a sustainable future.
Keywords: Environmental and social risk management, Climate risk management,
Sustainable bankin
Assessing Land Use Dynamics in Maduganga, Sri Lanka: A Comparative Study Using Supervised Classification
No full textMaduganga estuary is ecologically significant and is known for its rich biodiversity. It is located in the Balapitiya and Karandeniya Divisional Secretariat Division (DSD) of Southern Sri Lanka's Galle District. It is 915 hectares in size, spread across 15 islands. Designated as a Ramsar site in 2003, the estuary is primarily dominated by cinnamon cultivation and is increasingly supported by a growing nature-based tourism industry. Other activities include fishing, agriculture, coir production, and traditional practices like kraal fishery, with cinnamon being a primary crop in the region. This study aims to analyze the evolution of natural habitats and human activities in Maduganga from 2017 to 2024, providing critical data to guide conservation and sustainable development initiatives. Satellite images from 2017, 2021, and 2024 were acquired through the Copernicus program, with January and February chosen to minimize cloud cover. The Balapitiya DSD was designated the primary area of interest. A true-color image was fitted to the DSD boundaries. Subsequently, Support Vector Machine (SVM) classification was employed to create raster images, categorizing land use types such as inland waters, urban areas, forests, floodplains, and croplands. Following the classification process, area-based calculations for each land use category were performed. Regression analysis provided coefficients that indicated the rate of change for each land use type through the years. Inland waters have been decreasing by 0.30 km² annually, likely due to sedimentation and encroachment, while urban areas have expanded by 0.40 km² per year, reflecting growing urbanization. Forest areas have increased by 0.31 km², possibly from reforestation or cinnamon plantation expansion. Floodplains have grown moderately, while cropland has significantly declined by 0.58 km², likely due to urban development and agricultural shifts. The consistent decline in inland waters and cropland, alongside the expansion of urban areas and floodplains, suggests significant shifts that could impact the ecological balance of the region. As urbanization and the dominance of monoculture crops like cinnamon continue, there is a risk of disrupting the natural functions of the estuary, such as water retention, biodiversity support, and flood regulation. It is crucial to closely monitor these land use patterns and prioritize sustainable development and conservation strategies to mitigate the potential negative effects on the estuary's ecosystem and ensure its long-term health.
Keywords: Land use change, Maduganga estuary, Supervised classification, Ecosystem dynamics, Conservatio
Impact of Religious Pilgrimages on National Parks: A Case Study of Waste Management in Yala National Park, Sri Lanka
No full textAbstract
Yala National Park, located in southeastern Sri Lanka, is the country’s second-largest and most visited national park. The annual padha yathra pilgrimage involves approximately 30,000 devotees traveling on foot through wilderness areas, including parts of Yala. This pilgrimage, while spiritually significant, presents notable environmental challenges due to anthropogenic activities such as improper waste disposal, deforestation, campfire and man-made sacred sites. This study aims to quantify the distribution and composition of disposal debris in the Yala Block II. Five surveys were conducted, by the Young Zoologists' Association of Sri Lanka in collaboration with the Department of Wildlife Conservation, between 15th to 17th September, 2024. Sampling sites were selected based on the locations where pilgrims set up temporary camps. Study was carried out in three transects: Lin Thuna (T1), Menik River (T2), and Warahana (T3), each with a dimension of 1000 m in length and 50 m in width, covering an area of 150000 m2. A total of 205.485 kg of waste was collected, with the contributions of 84.985 kg (T1), 56.136 kg (T2), and 64.364 kg (T3) distributed across the three transects, respectively. A total of 45 volunteers systematically collected all debris by walking along the transects, ensuring a thorough coverage of the sampling sites. The debris was classified into eleven categories, with an average debris density of 1.367 g/m². Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) was the largest component, accounting for 23.60 % (48.495 kg) of the total weight, followed by polypropylene (PP) at 19.62 % (40.315 kg) accounting for the second largest, and glass at 18.14 % (37.275 kg) accounting for the third. Other categories included polyethylene (PE) at 9.65 % (19.822 kg), clothing at 7.53 % (15.475 kg), paper at 6.48 % (13.315 kg), metal at 5.58 % (11.475 kg), rubber at 3.99 % (8.209 kg), rigifoam at 2.21 % (4.551 kg), polyvinyl chloride (PVC) at 1.68 % (3.460 kg), and unknown materials at 1.51 % (3.093 kg). Based on these findings, the pilgrimage has been identified as a significant source of debris transport into Yala Block II. Single-use plastics, which significantly contribute to environmental pollution, require a reduction or ban in the national park. This can be achieved through collaboration with stakeholders, legislation, effective implementation, visitor inspections, fines, and adherence to waste management policies. Regular cleanup programs and local awareness campaigns, including engagement of communities and religious leaders, are recommended to change pilgrims' attitudes towards waste management.
Keywords: Yala National Park, Padha yathra, Pollution monitoring, Polythene clean-u
Effective Marketing Strategies for Promoting Eco-Friendly Travel Destinations: A Study of Consumer Behavior and Sustainable Tourism Growth
No full textThe importance of sustainable tourism practices in the face of global environmental challenges like climate change, resource depletion, and biodiversity loss has grown. Eco-friendly travel destinations, which prioritize conservation of natural and cultural resources while providing socio-economic benefits to local communities, have gained momentum. However, promoting these destinations requires an understanding of consumer behavior, preferences, and attitudes towards sustainability. This study explores the effectiveness of marketing strategies in promoting eco-friendly travel destinations and their influence on consumer behavior and sustainable tourism growth. The research employs a quantitative research design to analyze consumer behavior and the effectiveness of marketing strategies for eco-friendly destinations. Data was collected through structured questionnaires distributed to a sample population of 500 travelers, selected from a broad demographic range. The survey assessed consumer awareness of eco-friendly destinations, their motivations for choosing such destinations, and the marketing channels that influenced their travel decisions. Key variables included environmental awareness, price sensitivity, perceived authenticity, and brand loyalty toward eco-friendly destinations. Factors such as social media marketing, influencer endorsements, and digital advertisements contributed to shaping consumer perceptions and travel preferences. A factor analysis was conducted to identify the most significant marketing elements that affect consumers' decisions. Preliminary findings indicate that digital marketing strategies, particularly through social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook, have a profound impact on the decision-making process of travelers seeking eco-friendly destinations. Eco-certifications and sustainability labels enhanced consumer trust and perceived value, leading to a higher likelihood of booking eco-friendly accommodation or tours. Price sensitivity emerged as a moderating variable, with younger travelers being more likely to pay a premium for sustainable travel options. The study concludes that to promote sustainable tourism growth, marketers must not only highlight the environmental benefits but also effectively communicate the social and cultural experiences offered by eco-friendly destinations. Collaborations between destination marketers, environmental organizations, and local communities are needed to develop cohesive strategies aligned with sustainability principles.
Keywords: Sustainable tourism, Eco-friendly travel destinations, Consumer behavior in tourism, Marketing strategies in tourism
Evaluation of Ecosystem Services Provided by Urban Street Trees in Kandy City, Sri Lanka
No full textUrbanization is a global phenomenon defined by high population density and built-up infrastructures. It contributes to increased greenhouse gas emissions, loss of natural habitats, and degradation of water and air quality. Urban street trees are one of the solutions many countries have identified to ameliorate the negative impacts of urbanization and enhance ecosystem services. This study was designed to evaluate carbon sequestration potential, microclimate regulation potential and to estimate total PM accumulation by Madhuca longifolia, Pongamia pinnata, and Azadirachta indica species that have been selected from a least and highly urbanized sites in Kandy city. Carbon sequestration was measured by using total tree height, diameter at breast height, and wood density data, microclimate regulation was evaluated by measuring differences in temperature (ΔT), relative humidity (ΔRH), and illumination (ΔI) between under and away from tree canopies. Total PM accumulation was measured by quantifying large and coarse PM on and in wax tree leaves. Measurements were taken from ten individual trees and four individual trees from each species at highly and least urbanized sites respectively. One-way ANOVA and independent sample t-test were used to analyze differences in ecosystem services among species and between sites. M. longifolia performed the highest in total PM accumulation (149.74±23.53 µg/cm2), microclimate regulation (ΔT:0.33±0.02℃, ΔRH:1.46±0.16%, ΔI:75579.10±2075.14lux), P. pinnata performed the highest carbon sequestration (39.51±4.22 CO2eq Kg) at the highly urbanized site. At the least urbanized site A. indica showed the highest total PM accumulation (30.64±3.04 µg/cm2), P. pinnata showed the highest carbon sequestration (22.52±3.11 CO2eq Kg) and M. longifolia showed the highest microclimate regulation (ΔT:0.91±0.16℃, ΔRH:1.60±0.17%, ΔI:64299.35±1501.55lux). The pooled data showed significant positive correlations between leaf area and relative humidity increment, illumination reduction at highly urbanized sites as well as temperature reduction and illumination reduction at least urbanized sites at noon. It can be concluded that M. longifolia is identified as the best overall ecosystem services provider in relatively highly urbanized sites and A. indica shows the least performance. These findings can be used as a guideline for city planners to get eco-friendly urban environments.
Keywords: Street trees, Ecosystem services, Carbon sequestration, Microclimate regulation, PM accumulatio
HOW WE COME TO BELIEVE: A CONCEPTUAL EXPLORATION OF POLITICAL IDEOLOGY FORMATION
Get PDFPolitical ideology is a complex concept, commonly defined as a set of beliefs and values that shape an individual's political views and opinions. The formation of political ideology is a critical area of study, offering insights into the evolving political landscape. Understanding the factors that influence an individual’s political ideology is, therefore, a key research concern. This study identifies a theoretical gap in comprehensively conceptualizing the multifaceted factors that contribute to ideological formation. To address this gap, a structured review was conducted with the aim of examining key influences such as personality traits, gender differences, personal economic status, media exposure, childhood experiences, and cultural values. The review also explores exogenous, mediating, and moderating factors that shape ideological development. A keyword-based search, subject and abstract screening, and full-text review were used to identify relevant academic literature. The review process followed a systematic approach adapted from Webster and Watson (2002), which emphasizes organizing existing knowledge to build conceptual clarity. The major contribution of this study is the development of a conceptual framework that explains how various factors interact in shaping political ideology. The findings aim to strengthen academic understanding of ideological formation and offer practical insights for policymakers seeking to foster informed and engaged citizenship
Effect of Cutting Position and Growing Media on Rooting of Salad Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) Cuttings
Get PDFThe influence of cutting position and growing media on the rooting of salad cucumber lateral branches was investigated at the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka. A 2×3 Factorial Completely Randomized Design, including four replicates, was used to conduct the investigation. Cutting position (basal end and terminal end of the lateral branch) and growing media (coir dust, coir dust: sand (1:1) and sand) were considered as the two factors. Data were recorded as weight of cutting, length of cutting, number of roots per cutting, length of the longest root, fresh weight of roots and dry weight of roots one month after planting. ANOVA was used to analyze the data and SAS software was used to separate the means by the least significant difference (LSD) at a 5% probability level. According to the results, the weight of cutting, length of cutting, and fresh weight of roots resulted in an interaction effect. Basal end cuttings planted in coir dust media yielded the considerably highest fresh weight of roots (0.507 g). In comparison,terminal end cuttings planted in coir dust media recorded the significantly highest weight (13.500 g) and length of cutting (46.125 cm). Cutting position and growing media had a substantial impact on the length of the longest root and the dry weight of roots. The significantly highest length of the longest root (3.432 cm) and dry weight of roots (0.109 g) were observed in basal end cuttings planted in coir dust media. The number of roots per cutting was significantly high in coir dust (3.530) and coir dust: sand (1:1) (3.036) media. Increasing the vine length results in higher yield than increasing the number and weight of roots because salad cucumber has a short life cycle and bears fruits at the vine nodes. Thus, terminal ends of the lateral branches of salad cucumber can be utilized to effectively root in a coir dust medium to obtain planting material for the subsequent crop cycle
Mathematical Modeling of a Renewable Energy- Connected PEM Water Electrolyzer
Get PDFThis study provides the framework for optimizing a renewable energy-connected PEM electrolyzer. PEM electrolyzer was primarily enforced onto the electrolyzer process and different electrolyzers. The Key factors that need to be considered for the electrolyzer modeling process such as basic principles, modeling equations, and stack structure. There are several coupling technologies between solar PV and electrolyzers, such as direct coupling, coupling via an electronic converter, and battery- assisted electrolyzer. A mathematical model of solar PV-connected PEM electrolyzer is developed in this project. Then the mathematical model is optimized using optimizing parameters such as the temperature of solar PV, and the Operating temperature of the PEM electrolyzer of the PEM electrolyzer
Developing VR Technologies for Engineering Education
Get PDFThis research explores the development and evaluation of a Virtual Reality (VR) Learning and Practical Hub aimed at improving mechanical engineering education at a Faculty of Engineering. A survey was conducted with students across various academic levels to identify essential engineering concepts and practical sessions for VR integration. The VR application was refined through pilot tests, incorporating student feedback. A final evaluation was performed by comparing traditional and VR-based practical sessions, measuring student engagement, productivity, and interest. The results indicate that VR has significant potential to enhance learning experiences in engineering education
Investigating the Influential Factors of Household Food Expenditure: Towards Ensuring Food Security of Sri Lanka
No full textFood expenditure represents a significant portion of household consumption, and the share of spending on food is a key indicator of food security. This measure directly reflects the accessibility and affordability of nutritious food, which in turn affects people's overall well-being and resilience to economic shocks. Ensuring food security is therefore crucial in global poverty alleviation. This study aims to assess food security levels in Sri Lanka and examine the factors influencing household food expenditure. The data related to monthly food expenditure, monthly income, demographic variables, household size, education level, employment status and the ownership of agricultural lands and livestock were obtained from the Household Income and Expenditure Survey (HIES) 2019 conducted by the Department of Census and Statistics. The final sample included 1,192 households, selected through random sampling to ensure representation from all districts in Sri Lanka. The food expenditure share was calculated for all the households. The data were analyzed using multiple linear regression analysis, using the STATA software package. Results revealed that the average monthly food expenditure is LKR 5448, ranging from LKR 570 to LKR 18593. The sample is dominated by male household heads (78.61%) and consisted of households from rural (77.10%), estate (6.12%) and urban (16.78%) sectors. Monthly income (β=0.0198, p<0.05), household size (β=550.61, p<0.05), and having own account work (β=375.85, p<0.05) positively influence the food expenditure. The impact of having a secondary level education and above is positive. Living in the rural (β=-709.23, p<0.05) and estate sectors (β=-662.36, p<0.05) reduces food expenditure, compared to urban sectors. This emphasizes the influence of differences in lifestyle on spending on food. The results revealed that the differences in cultures affect food expenditure. Belonging to Sri Lankan Moors (β=905.29, p<0.05) and Malay (β=1285.62, p<0.05) positively affects the spending on food. Moreover, the food expenditure share for the majority of households is less than 15%. The findings emphasize that socioeconomic factors are important in determining household food expenditure. The outcomes of this study are valuable for policymakers and relevant authorities in developing strategies to mitigate food poverty, ensure food security, and enhance overall well-being in the country.
Keywords: Food expenditure, Regression analysis, Socio-economic determinants, Food securit