Management Discussion And Analysis

1

Coral Restoration Programme

'A Breath to the Ocean' – Coral restoration programme is an environmental initiative undertaken by the Bank to contribute for oceanic biodiversity restoration identifying its significance to maintain the planet’s health. Through this initiative, the Bank aims to reduce the negative impact on the climate, conserve marine habitants and get community engagement for the conservation efforts. This will enhance the eco-tourism opportunities while improving the livelihood in the surrounding community. The Bank has contributed to conserving coral reefs in identified sea patches in Bandaramulla, Mirissa, Dutch Bay in Trincomalee and Batheegama in Dickwella by placing reef balls and got the community engaged throughout each phase. The resource person for the technical guidance is, Professor P B Terney Pradeep Kumara, Senior Lecturer, Department of Oceanography and Marine Geology, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences and Technology of University of Ruhuna.

This year initiatives;

• Nilwella Beach in Dickwella: 20 reef balls were placed to aid coral planting to improve marine biodiversity. This was initiated with support from the surrounding community and the Department of Wildlife Conservation.
• Marble Beach in Trincomalee: 20 reef balls were placed to boost coral growth at Marble Beach while promoting its importance of conservation. This was initiated in partnership with Sri Lanka Air Force and the Department of Wildlife Conservation.

2

Turtle Conservation Programme

'A Breath to the Ocean' - Turtle conservation programme in Rekawa Beach, focuses on conserving endangered sea turtles and their habitats in collaboration with the Department of Wildlife Conservation and engaging with surrounding communities. Building hatcheries, creating a research centre and an education hub and equipping rescue centre are parts of this initiative.

This year initiatives;

• A camping site in Rekawa was established with the aim to facilitate scientific research on turtle conservation.
• Conducting research to assess the influence of environmental variables on nesting success of turtles in Rekawa.

3

Research on Assessing the Influence of Environmental Variables on Nesting Success of Turtles in Rekawa, Sri Lanka

Conducting a research on assessing the influence of environmental variables on nesting success of turtles in Rekawa, Sri Lanka. In line with its commitment to sustainability, the Bank conducted a ground breaking research project at Rekawa Beach to assess the influence of environmental factors on the nesting success of sea turtles. By analysing critical variables such as sand temperature, moisture and nest elevation, this initiative offered invaluable insights to refine turtle conservation strategies. The project also fostered community collaboration, empowering local residents to actively monitor and protect nesting sites. This effort reinforces the Bank’s dedication to safeguarding marine ecosystems and contributing to global biodiversity goals, ensuring a thriving future for life below water.

The research findings will be utilised to further enhance the Bank's turtle conservation efforts in collaboration with the Department of Wildlife Conservation.

4

Fixing Information Boards at Batheegama

As part of the 'A Breath to the Ocean' initiative, and to enhance the sustainability of the project, the Bank successfully fixed information boards at three prominent locations along Batheegama beach in Dickwella. These boards were designed to educate the public about the importance of turtle conservation and highlight laws protecting these endangered species. By addressing issues like poaching and habitat destruction, this project supports the local community's ongoing efforts to safeguard turtles and their nesting grounds under the guidance of the Department of Wildlife Conservation.

5

Coral Reef Clean-up Project at Kapparatota, Weligama and Talaramba, Matara

Coral reef clean-up project at Kapparatota, Weligama and Talaramba, Matara in collaboration with the Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA). As part of our commitment to environmental sustainability, the Bank successfully completed an initiative to protect and restore coral reef ecosystems, focused on raising awareness about the rainforest of the sea, mitigating threats and preserving the health of coral reefs for future generations. Through these efforts, we continue to champion the conservation of these essential marine habitats.

6

Ocean Plastic Reduction Initiative

Ocean plastic reduction initiative in collaboration with RTI International at Madu River Sanctuary supports to establish a floating market, promoting eco-friendly and plastic alternative products. It aims to boost local livelihoods, particularly for women, by fostering sustainable tourism and economic opportunities. It is a community driven project, led by residents of Maduwa Island. 545 beneficiaries including women entrepreneurs, suppliers and boat owners were given the opportunity.

7

Research Symposium on Oceans and Freshwater Systems (SOFS)

The Bank proudly supported the 2nd Symposium on Oceans and Freshwater Systems (SOFS), held at the University of Ruhuna, as the main collaborator. Aligned with the theme 'Expanding Resilient Blue Horizons,' this initiative brought together researchers, students and industry experts to advance sustainable practices in marine and freshwater ecosystems. Through this partnership, the Bank strengthened its commitment to environmental stewardship under the 'A Breath to the Ocean' programme, fostering knowledge sharing and innovative solutions for marine conservation and sustainable development in Sri Lanka. Furthermore, the Bank recognised and awarded the undergraduates who presented the best sustainable research across four distinct areas: Ocean and Lagoon Health, Aquaculture Development, Sustainable Fisheries and Environmental Management. In parallel to the symposium, the Bank provided snorkelling equipment to the University of Ruhuna to support their studies on oceanic ecosystems. This contribution aims to enhance the university's research capabilities and foster a deeper understanding of marine environments. 215 undergraduates participated.

9

'Life to Our Mangroves‘ Project in Anawilundawa Ramsar Wetland

‘Life to Our Mangroves‘ project in Anawilundawa Ramsar Wetland aims to restore 1 hectare of degraded wetland over a five year period. Focused on restoring species like Bruguiera Cylindrica and Rhizophora Mucronata, the initiative enhances ecosystem resilience and addresses climate and socio-economic challenges, while supporting biodiversity and community preparedness phases were carried out for awareness, research and biodiversity monitoring. The plant nursery was prepared and canal system in the project site was constructed with the support of Community Leaders. This project was recognised by winning the 'UN Decade of Restoration Flagship Award' for Sri Lanka. This recognition is bestowed upon our nation for its outstanding achievements in mangrove restoration and conservation.

This year initiatives;

• 1,900 mangrove saplings were planted
• 4,500 seeds scattered to support the natural regeneration process

‘Life to Our Forest’ - Halgahawala reforestation project is undertaken by the Bank in partnership with Biodiversity Sri Lanka to restore a dedicated degraded forest land of 10 hectares adjoining to Kanneliya Forest Reserve. This degraded forest land located in Opatha, Halgahawala in Galle District. Although the project commenced in 2018 and successfully concluded in 2023, the Bank has committed to continue supporting the project to ensure its environmental contribution of being a carbon sequestration source while enhancing air and water quality. The project will contribute to protect native species and promote its regeneration. Token of appreciation was received for this project by the platform of the Preferred by Nature of conformity with the ecosystem restoration field verification standard V3.1.

The Bank launched a reforestation project in Embilipitiya, Udawalawa to restore 1 hectare of degraded forest land and prevent fires. Focused on enhancing biodiversity, water conservation and carbon sequestration through native plantings and controlling invasive species. In addition to the other native plants, the project team has taken the initiative to plant fruit saplings in the restoration site as a creative way to lessen the number of wild animals that stray into the village.

This promotes sustainability, ecological balance and community well-being in Embilipitiya area. 800 saplings were planted with the participation of 31 volunteers from the Bank, Department of Forest Conservation and with the support of community.

13

Relaunch of Sampath Bank Nature Protection Club (SNaPC)

Established in 2012, Sampath Bank Nature Protection Club (SNaPC) is the Bank's volunteer-driven initiative dedicated to environmental sustainability, in building a Green Force comprising members of the Sampath Team. As the green arm of Sampath Bank, SNaPC operates under the guiding philosophy, 'Love Life – Love Nature,' symbolising the harmonious relationship between humanity and nature. The Club focuses on implementing sustainable environmental and banking initiatives while actively engaging employees in promoting conservation, protection and regeneration of natural resources. Recognising the growing importance of environmental stewardship in today's age of responsibility, SNaPC underwent a strategic relaunch. This relaunch underscores the Bank’s commitment to embedding a green mindset among its employees and ensuring that SNaPC continues to play a pivotal role in driving sustainability across its operations. The relaunching event was conducted with the theme of ‘Oceanic Eco-system’ graced by the Managing Director and the Corporate Management. As part of the relaunch of the Sampath Nature Protection Club (SNaPC), comprehensive awareness sessions were conducted for all participating staff members. These sessions featured insights on the Oceanic Ecosystem by Professor P B Terney Pradeep Kumara, Senior Lecturer, the Department of Oceanography and Marine Geology, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences and Technology, University of Ruhuna, and on the Blue Economy by Dr Shamen Widanage, Country Representative for IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature). 142 staff members participated in the event.

14

'Gasai Mamai Pubudu Pothai' Tree Planting and Vegetable Gardening Programme

The 'Gasai Mamai Pubudu Pothai' tree planting programme nurtures future generations towards environmental conservation by gifting a fruit sapling to take care of until it grows. Its cultivation generates income for their schools to cover day-to-day expenses.

The 2nd phase of 'Gasai Mamai Pubudu Pothai' promotes vegetable gardening concept among school children by providing vegetable seeds, gardening equipment and organic fertilisers while improving their environmental consciousness. Facilitated to establish number of school gardening units in Gampaha and Negombo educational zones under this programme.

This year initiatives;

• 5,516 fruit saplings were distributed among 53 schools
• 60 new school gardening units in Gampaha and 55 new school gardening units in Negombo were established