The Geography and Remote Sensing Analysis of Sri Lanka

This book provides a comprehensive overview of Sri Lanka's environmental resources, including land, vegetation, water, and socio-economic development, with a focus on policy protection for the environment and biodiversity.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 263 pages
Publication date: 13 February 2022
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This comprehensive book provides a thorough survey, dynamic monitoring, and comprehensive analysis of Sri Lanka's diverse environmental resources, including land, vegetation, surface water, ocean, and more. It delves into the country's economic, transportation, urban, agricultural, and tourism development, offering readers accurate, systematic, and comprehensive information on Sri Lanka's ecological setting and socio-economic progress. Additionally, it sheds light on policies aimed at protecting the environment and biodiversity, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices for a thriving future.

Introduction:
Sri Lanka, a beautiful island nation located in South Asia, boasts a rich and diverse natural environment. From its lush tea plantations to its stunning beaches, Sri Lanka offers a plethora of environmental treasures that contribute to its economic and social well-being. However, like many developing countries, Sri Lanka faces challenges related to environmental degradation, resource scarcity, and climate change.

Objectives:
The primary objective of this book is to provide a comprehensive overview of Sri Lanka's environmental resources and their management. It seeks to:

• Present a survey of Sri Lanka's land, vegetation, surface water, ocean, and other environmental resources.


• Analyze the dynamics of these resources, including their distribution, abundance, and sustainability.


• Explore the economic, transportation, urban, agricultural, and tourism development in Sri Lanka.


• Provide accurate, systematic, and comprehensive information on Sri Lanka's ecological setting and socio-economic development.


• Shed light on policies for the protection of the environment and biodiversity.

Chapter 1:
Land Resources:
Sri Lanka is known for its fertile and diverse land resources. The country has a total land area of approximately 65,610 square kilometers, with a variety of soil types, including fertile alluvial soils, dry lowlands, and mountainous regions. The land is primarily used for agriculture, with tea, rubber, coconut, and spices being the major cash crops.

Chapter 1: Land Resources

Sri Lanka, renowned for its fertile and diverse land resources, encompasses a total land area of approximately 65,610 square kilometers. This vast expanse of land is characterized by a diverse array of soil types, including fertile alluvial soils, arid lowlands, and towering mountainous regions. The land serves as the primary foundation for agriculture, with tea, rubber, coconut, and spices being the major cash crops.

The fertile alluvial soils found in Sri Lanka's central and southern regions are highly productive and are ideal for cultivating a wide range of crops. These soils are rich in organic matter, minerals, and nutrients, making them conducive to the growth of tea, rubber, and coconut trees. The tea industry in Sri Lanka is one of the country's most important economic sectors, contributing significantly to its foreign exchange earnings. The country's tea plantations are spread across the central and southern regions, with the highest concentration in the Uva and Southern Provinces. The tea industry employs a large workforce and plays a vital role in the country's economy, providing employment opportunities to thousands of people.

In contrast, the dry lowlands located in the north and east of Sri Lanka are characterized by sparse vegetation and limited agricultural potential. These regions are primarily used for livestock grazing and subsistence farming. However, efforts are being made to develop these areas for agriculture by implementing irrigation projects and promoting the cultivation of drought-resistant crops.

The mountainous regions of Sri Lanka, particularly in the central and eastern parts, are home to a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna. These regions are also important for tourism, with many visitors seeking to explore the country's natural beauty and adventure sports. The highest peak in Sri Lanka, Mount Everest, is located in the central region, attracting numerous climbers and trekkers each year.

In addition to its agricultural and tourism potential, Sri Lanka's land resources are also significant for the conservation of biodiversity. The country has several national parks and wildlife reserves that protect a wide range of plant and animal species. These protected areas provide habitats for endangered species, such as the Sri Lankan elephant, leopard, and blue whale, and contribute to the country's efforts to combat climate change by sequestering carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

Chapter 2: Vegetation Resources:
Sri Lanka's vegetation resources are equally diverse and important. The country is home to a wide range of plant species, including endemic and threatened species. The most prominent vegetation types in Sri Lanka include rainforests, scrub forests, and dry forests.

Rainforests are the most extensive vegetation type in Sri Lanka, covering approximately 25% of the country's land area. These forests are characterized by dense canopy cover, high humidity, and a wide variety of plant and animal species. The rainforests of Sri Lanka are home to several endangered species, including the Sri Lankan elephant, leopard, and sloth bear. The country's rainforests are also important for the conservation of water resources, as they play a crucial role in the water cycle by absorbing and storing water.

Scrub forests are found in the dry and semi-arid regions of Sri Lanka and are characterized by low canopy cover and a predominance of thorny shrubs and trees. These forests are important for the conservation of biodiversity, as they provide habitats for a variety of bird species, reptiles, and mammals. Scrub forests are also important for the production of timber and firewood, as they are rich in valuable timber species such as teak and mahogany.

Dry forests are found in the central and eastern parts of Sri Lanka and are characterized by low rainfall and high temperatures. These forests are important for the conservation of biodiversity, as they provide habitats for a variety of bird species, reptiles, and mammals. Dry forests are also important for the production of timber and firewood, as they are rich in valuable timber species such as teak and mahogany.

In addition to its diverse vegetation resources, Sri Lanka is also home to several endemic and threatened plant species. These species are unique to the country and play a crucial role in its ecological balance. Some of the most notable endemic and threatened plant species in Sri Lanka include the Sri Lankan orchid, the endemic palm species, and the threatened palm species.

Chapter 3: Surface Water Resources:
Sri Lanka's surface water resources are also significant, with the country being home to several major rivers and lakes. The Mahaweli River, the country's largest river, is a major source of water for irrigation and hydroelectric power generation. The river also provides habitat for a wide range of aquatic species, including fish, crocodiles, and water birds.

Other major rivers in Sri Lanka include the Kelani River, the Walawe River, and the Kalu Ganga. These rivers are also important for irrigation and hydroelectric power generation, but they also provide habitat for a variety of aquatic species, including fish, crocodiles, and water birds.

In addition to its major rivers, Sri Lanka is also home to several major lakes, including the Victoria Lake, the Kandy Lake, and the Mahaweli Lake. These lakes are important for irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and recreational activities such as fishing and boating.

However, Sri Lanka's surface water resources are facing several challenges, including pollution, overfishing, and water scarcity. The country's industrial and agricultural activities have led to the discharge of pollutants into rivers and lakes, which have harmed aquatic ecosystems and reduced the availability of clean water. Overfishing has also led to the depletion of fish stocks, which has had a negative impact on the livelihoods of fishermen and the availability of fish for consumption.

To address these challenges, Sri Lanka has implemented several policies and initiatives aimed at protecting and managing its surface water resources. These include the establishment of water management institutions, the implementation of pollution control measures, and the promotion of sustainable fishing practices.

Chapter 4: Ocean Resources:
Sri Lanka's ocean resources are also significant, with the country being located along the Indian Ocean. The country's coastline is approximately 1,340 kilometers long and is home to several important marine ecosystems.

The most important marine ecosystem in Sri Lanka is the coral reef system, which is located along the country's southern coast. The coral reef system is home to a wide range of marine species, including fish, coral, and other invertebrates. The coral reef system is also important for the protection of the coastline, as it provides a buffer against erosion and storm surges.

Other important marine ecosystems in Sri Lanka include the mangrove forests, which are located along the country's coastal areas. The mangrove forests are important for the conservation of biodiversity, as they provide habitats for a wide range of plant and animal species. The mangrove forests are also important for the protection of the coastline, as they provide a buffer against erosion and storm surges.

In addition to its marine ecosystems, Sri Lanka is also home to several important fishing grounds. The country's fisheries sector is a major source of income for the country, contributing significantly to its economy. The country's fisheries sector is also important for the conservation of marine ecosystems, as it promotes sustainable fishing practices and reduces the impact of overfishing.

However, Sri Lanka's ocean resources are also facing several challenges, including pollution, overfishing, and climate change. The country's industrial and agricultural activities have led to the discharge of pollutants into the ocean, which has harmed marine ecosystems and reduced the availability of clean water. Overfishing has also led to the depletion of fish stocks, which has had a negative impact on the livelihoods of fishermen and the availability of fish for consumption.

To address these challenges, Sri Lanka has implemented several policies and initiatives aimed at protecting and managing its ocean resources. These include the establishment of marine protected areas, the implementation of pollution control measures, and the promotion of sustainable fishing practices.

Chapter 5: Economic Development:
Sri Lanka's economic development has been driven by a combination of factors, including agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing. The country's economy is heavily dependent on exports, with tea, rubber, coconut, and spices being the major export commodities.

Agriculture is the most important sector of Sri Lanka's economy, contributing approximately 25% of the country's GDP. The country's tea plantations are the largest in the world, and the country is known for its high-quality tea. The tea industry employs a large workforce and plays a vital role in the country's economy, providing employment opportunities to thousands of people.

Tourism is also an important sector of Sri Lanka's economy, contributing approximately 10% of the country's GDP. The country's natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historical sites attract millions of visitors each year. The tourism industry employs a large workforce and plays a vital role in the country's economy, providing employment opportunities to thousands of people.

Manufacturing is also an important sector of Sri Lanka's economy, contributing approximately 15% of the country's GDP. The country's manufacturing sector is focused on textiles, garments, and electronics. The manufacturing sector employs a large workforce and plays a vital role in the country's economy, providing employment opportunities to thousands of people.

However, Sri Lanka's economic development has also been accompanied by several challenges, including income inequality, environmental degradation, and political instability. The country's income inequality has led to a large gap between the rich and the poor, with many people living in poverty. Environmental degradation has led to the loss of biodiversity and the degradation of natural resources, which has had a negative impact on the country's economy and the well-being of its citizens.

To address these challenges, Sri Lanka has implemented several policies and initiatives aimed at promoting economic development and reducing income inequality. These include the implementation of social welfare programs, the promotion of sustainable development practices, and the reduction of corruption.

Chapter 6: Transportation:
Sri Lanka's transportation system is well-developed, with a network of roads, railways, and waterways. The country's road network is extensive, covering approximately 120,000 kilometers, and is divided into three main highways: the A1, the A2, and the A3. The A1 highway connects the capital city of Colombo with the northern part of the country, while the A2 highway connects the capital city with the southern part of the country. The A3 highway connects the capital city with the eastern part of the country.

The country's railway network is also well-developed, with a network of approximately 1,200 kilometers. The railway network is divided into three main lines: the Northern Line, the Eastern Line, and the Western Line. The Northern Line connects the capital city of Colombo with the northern part of the country, while the Eastern Line connects the capital city with the eastern part of the country. The Western Line connects the capital city with the western part of the country.

In addition to its road and railway networks, Sri Lanka also has a network of waterways, including the Mahaweli River and the Kalu Ganga. These waterways are important for transportation, as they provide a cheap and efficient means of moving goods and people.

However, Sri Lanka's transportation system is also facing several challenges, including traffic congestion, road accidents, and pollution. Traffic congestion is a major problem in Sri Lanka, particularly in the capital city of Colombo. Road accidents are also a major problem in Sri Lanka, particularly in rural areas where roads are not well-maintained. Pollution is also a major problem in Sri Lanka, particularly in urban areas where vehicles emit high levels of carbon dioxide and other pollutants.

To address these challenges, Sri Lanka has implemented several policies and initiatives aimed at improving its transportation system. These include the implementation of traffic management systems, the improvement of road infrastructure, and the promotion of alternative transportation modes such as cycling and walking.

Chapter 7: Urban Development:
Sri Lanka's urban development has been rapid in recent years, with the country's population growing at an average rate of 3.5% per year. The country's urbanization rate is approximately 30%, and the majority of the population is concentrated in the capital city of Colombo.

The city of Colombo is the largest and most developed city in Sri Lanka, with a population of approximately 6 million people. The city is characterized by a mix of modern infrastructure and traditional culture. The city is home to several important landmarks, including the Sri Lankan Parliament, the National Museum, and the Colombo Racecourse.

Other major cities in Sri Lanka include the cities of Kandy, Galle, and Trincomalee. These cities are also important for tourism and economic development, but they face several challenges, including urban congestion, pollution, and poor infrastructure.

To address these challenges, Sri Lanka has implemented several policies and initiatives aimed at promoting urban development and reducing urban congestion. These include the implementation of urban planning policies, the promotion of public transportation, and the development of infrastructure such as roads, electricity, and water.

Chapter 8: Agricultural Development:
Sri Lanka's agricultural sector is the backbone of the country's economy, contributing approximately 20% of the country's GDP. The country's agricultural sector is heavily dependent on irrigation, with the majority of the country's farms located in the central and southern regions.

The country's agricultural sector is characterized by a mix of small-scale and large-scale farming. Small-scale farming is practiced by farmers who own small plots of land and cultivate a variety of crops. Large-scale farming is practiced by farmers who own large plots of land and cultivate a single crop.

The country's agricultural sector is also characterized by a mix of traditional and modern farming practices. Traditional farming practices include the use of organic fertilizers, the use of traditional irrigation methods, and the use of traditional crop varieties. Modern farming practices include the use of chemical fertilizers, the use of modern irrigation methods, and the use of genetically modified crop varieties.

However, Sri Lanka's agricultural sector is also facing several challenges, including soil degradation, water scarcity, and climate change. Soil degradation is a major problem in Sri Lanka, particularly in the central and southern regions where farmers use intensive farming practices. Water scarcity is a major problem in Sri Lanka, particularly in the dry and semi-arid regions where farmers rely on irrigation. Climate change is a major problem in Sri Lanka, particularly in the coastal regions where farmers are vulnerable to the impacts of sea level rise and extreme weather events.

To address these challenges, Sri Lanka has implemented several policies and initiatives aimed at promoting agricultural development and reducing soil degradation, water scarcity, and climate change. These include the implementation of soil conservation policies, the promotion of sustainable irrigation practices, and the development of climate-resilient crop varieties.

Chapter 9: Tourism Development:
Sri Lanka's tourism sector is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the country, with the number of tourists visiting the country increasing at an average rate of 10% per year. The country's tourism sector is heavily dependent on natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historical sites.

The country's tourism sector is characterized by a mix of luxury and budget tourism. Luxury tourism is practiced by tourists who seek to experience the best that Sri Lanka has to offer, including luxury hotels, spas, and restaurants. Budget tourism is practiced by tourists who seek to experience the best that Sri Lanka has to offer, including budget hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants.

The country's tourism sector is also characterized by a mix of traditional and modern tourism practices. Traditional tourism practices include the use of cultural performances, the use of traditional handicrafts, and the use of traditional cuisine. Modern tourism practices include the use of modern infrastructure, the use of modern technology, and the use of modern marketing techniques.

However, Sri Lanka's tourism sector is also facing several challenges, including environmental degradation, cultural insensitivity, and political instability. Environmental degradation is a major problem in Sri Lanka, particularly in the coastal regions where tourists are vulnerable to the impacts of sea level rise and extreme weather events. Cultural insensitivity is a major problem in Sri Lanka, particularly in the rural areas where tourists are exposed to the local culture and customs. Political instability is a major problem in Sri Lanka, particularly in the northern and eastern regions where tourists are vulnerable to the impacts of civil conflict.

To address these challenges, Sri Lanka has implemented several policies and initiatives aimed at promoting tourism development and reducing environmental degradation, cultural insensitivity, and political instability. These include the implementation of environmental protection policies, the promotion of cultural sensitivity training, and the development of infrastructure such as hotels and restaurants.

Chapter 10: Conclusion:
Sri Lanka's environmental resources are diverse and important, and the country's economic, transportation, urban, agricultural, and tourism development are heavily dependent on these resources. However, Sri Lanka faces several challenges related to environmental degradation, resource scarcity, and climate change.

To address these challenges, Sri Lanka has implemented several policies and initiatives aimed at protecting and managing its environmental resources. These include the establishment of protected areas, the implementation of pollution control measures, and the promotion of sustainable development practices.

In conclusion, Sri Lanka's environmental resources are diverse and important, and the country's economic, transportation, urban, agricultural, and tourism development are heavily dependent on these resources. However, Sri Lanka faces several challenges related to environmental degradation, resource scarcity, and climate change. To address these challenges, Sri Lanka has implemented several policies and initiatives aimed at protecting and managing its environmental resources. These include the establishment of protected areas, the implementation of pollution control measures, and the promotion of sustainable development practices. By implementing these policies and initiatives, Sri Lanka can ensure a sustainable future for its citizens and its natural environment.

Weight: 433g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789813346291
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021