Village Earth Global Affiliate Eco-V is building awareness and appreciation for the natural environment among urban youth through the development of an gardens in Colombo, Sri Lanka. 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 programs 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.
“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. “
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.
Eco-V Director, Kanchana Weerekoon teaching youth about the importance of protecting Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity.