Energy, Environment and Sustainable Development Futures in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka, as a country with rapid economic development, faces many issues in energy and environmental sectors due to dependence of the national economy on expensive energy imports, forest and land degradation, air and water pollution, and under-development of the waste management. However, when viewed in a holistic manner, interdependencies and relevant solutions are identifiable. Organic waste, which is a source of water and air pollution, for instance, can turn into an essential source of energy or nutrients to enhance soil conservation. Forest conservation can reduce soil erosion subsequently improving hydropower effectiveness. And, these renewable energies can decrease the energy import dependence, additionally reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This study discusses the key tendencies occurring in the energy and environmental sectors in Sri Lanka and seeks integrated solutions for sustainable evolvement of the coupled nature-human systems in the country.