Papers by Dr. Sampath Wahala
Proceedings of International Forestry and Environment Symposium, Jul 8, 2013
Forest fires have become a localized hazard in some areas of Sri Lanka, especially in the study a... more Forest fires have become a localized hazard in some areas of Sri Lanka, especially in the study area Balangoda. But the fact is a limited numbers of efforts were taken to control the fires due to lack of risk maps. According to the Disaster Management Center (DMC) throughout the last years it has been reported almost one fire per day nationally. Most tradigical part here is most of fires occur due to anthropogenic activities. This research is focused on three aspects. First is to conduct time series analysis to extract, burn areas within last 10years, second to map the potential of forest fire risk and third to suggest suitable fire preventive measures. Remote sensing, Geographical information system, mathematical model (AHP) and time series analysis is used in this study. Due to several limitations exist, such as; the nature of fires in the study forest area and also the limited no of data, the first aspect is not revealed an appropriate result. However, the second aspect shows tha...
Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) provides a methodological framework for evaluating environmental perf... more Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) provides a methodological framework for evaluating environmental performance over the life cycle of a product, process, or an activity. In Sri Lanka, majority of timber for wood based industries comes from homegardens and Government owned forest plantations. State Timber Corporation (STC) is the authoritative body for timber harvesting in state owned forest plantations. This LCA study was carried out to calculate Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions of the STC timber movements from the plantation to the finished product. The study concentrated on teak, eucalypt and mahogany species as they represented fast moving commercial timber of high significance. Assessment boundary was from the harvesting to the product. Updated emission factors were used to calculate the CO 2 eq units. When considering the emissions during the process, the highest was recorded in the sawmilling process (48% from sawing, 9% from surfacing and 9% from drying). The transportation accounted for 31.25% of emissions while harvesting contributed to 6%. Other indirect emissions accounted for 2.75%.
Around 70% of the world's surface is covered with water, most of which is salty. Only 2.5% of the... more Around 70% of the world's surface is covered with water, most of which is salty. Only 2.5% of the total is fresh water which is mostly embedded in glaciers, ice caps or at great depths underground. Hence Water shortage represents one of the main threats to life on our planet. Over the last five years, society and corporate businesses alike have expressed increasing concern about the long-term sustainability of water resources. As a result of that a great number of companies, most of them multinationals have started to compute the water impact using the concept “Water Footprint”. The water footprint can be regarded as a comprehensive indicator of freshwater resources appropriation, next to the traditional and restricted measure of water withdrawal. The main objective of this study is to calculate the organization’s virtual water consumption via calculating water footprint of Brandix Apparel Solutions –Rambukkana.
The study was conducted in year 2015, with 3 years of historic data on water extraction. Video sampling method was used to estimate behaviour related water wastage on blue water footprint, hourly water use profiles were used to estimate leakages. Blue and grey water footprints were estimated using standard methodologies published by the water footprint network.
The total operational water footprint of the organization was estimated as 37.92 m3/day. The total blue water footprint is 34.40m3/day and grey water footprint is 3.528m3 /day. In the organization, water is mainly used for flushing (66%), Drinking (3%), canteen (28%), and kitchen (3%).The highest water consumption per one person for one time is shown in lunch time. When it considers different genders, the highest water consumption per person was recorded from male and highest water wastage per person was recorded from females. Saving potential of blue water footprint and the grey water footprint were also estimated.
Environmental pollution, changing patterns of consumption and production and increased sustainabl... more Environmental pollution, changing patterns of consumption and production and increased sustainable development concerns create new challenges for companies worldwide. The hospitality sector activities are also strongly linked to the three pillars of sustainable development: economic competitiveness, social importance and environmental impact. Integrated and new approaches for materials and energy management are required to follow sustainable economic and ecological objectives and to succeed in the global. The concept of cleaner production suit the ideal business environment to tackle the challenges of the changing global context and offers concrete solutions for increases efficiency and reduces risks to humans and the environment.The hotel sector is a very important sector in current Sri Lankan economy. However it was identified that the industry is one of the highest consumers of energy and natural resources. According to the Sustainable Energy Authority the total hotel load is estimated to be about 4-5 % of the total demand of the national grid. The average energy cost of a typical hotel is around 25% of its total operational cost. Comprehensive assessments were conducted in selected hotels according to the UNIDO Cleaner Production (CP) methodology. The study showed that the significant environmental issues in the context of daily hotel operations includeWater consumption and wastewater generation, Solid waste management and Air quality (indoors and outdoors). Also through an energy audit it was found that the key energy consuming areas of hotels include lighting, air conditioning, cooking etc. Air conditioning accounts for 50% of total energy consumption in a hotel.There are various practical CP options for hotel sector to reduce its impact on the environment and achieve cost savings which is important for industry performance in a competitive business environment. This study helped to identify CP options that can be implemented in hotel sector in general. Most of the CP options identified can be implemented with relatively short payback period. The findings of the case studies showed that on average about 25% of the water consumption, 20% waste generation and 20 % electricity consumption can be reduce in the five hotels studies.
The importance of terrestrial ecosystems for the global carbon cycle is undoubted (IPCC, 1996). T... more The importance of terrestrial ecosystems for the global carbon cycle is undoubted (IPCC, 1996). The main terrestrial compartments involved with fluxes and storage of C are vegetation and soils. In this context, forest plantations and homegardens play major role in CO 2 sink and long term storage. State Timber Corporation (STC) is the authoritative body for timber harvesting in state owned plantations in Sri Lanka and majority of timber for wood based industries in the country is coming from the government owned plantations and homegardens. The main objective of this study was to assess the embedded CO 2 flux in harvested timber and the flow of embedded CO 2 stock during the processing both as logs and sawn timber and the study was confined to the timber harvesting and processing operations in the timber depots of the State Timber Corporation for the ease of obtaining reliable data. Greenhouse gas emissions of the main processors were estimated using a " cradle to gate " approach where harvesting was taken as the starting point and the timber depots/ showrooms as the final destination. The study covered the embedded CO 2 stock movement of 36 timber species in 18 regions covering 559.4 ha of state owned plantations in Sri Lanka between years 2011 and 2012. Embedded CO 2 of timber stocks of each timber species were estimated using species specific wood specific gravity values and the standard conversion factors. Further the Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions during the process were accessed. Timber stock movements and transportation data of timber species were obtained from regional timber depots. Data on standing stocks and harvest volumes of state owned plantations were obtained mainly from FORDATA data base and Forest Department's inventories. In the primary processing, logs removed from the harvested sites represent approximately 60% of the total volume. Ten percent of the wood is taken for fuel wood from the pruning, 5% is wasted as leftovers at the harvesting site, 23% at the primary processing stage and 2% at the secondary processing phase totalling to 40%. Analysis shows the average monthly embedded CO 2 inflow of timber logs was 20.96 ± 96.74 tons, while out flow was 19.98 ± 89.32. Average monthly embedded CO 2 inflow of swan timbers were 1.02 ± 5.9 tons while issuers were 0.91 ± 5 tons. When considering the emissions during the process, 6% of total emissions are at felling stage. Emissions from transportation both inside the site and outside the site made approximately 31.25%. Sawmilling was the highest GHG emitting sub process which contributed 48% from
Global warming is the most widespread problem of the new millennium. Carbon dioxide (CO 2) is the... more Global warming is the most widespread problem of the new millennium. Carbon dioxide (CO 2) is the most important greenhouse gas released as a result of human activities. As a consequence, global average temperature is projected to increase by 1.4 to 5.8 0 C over the period of 1990 to 2100. Forest based land use systems such as natural forests, forest plantations and agroforestry systems store carbon in their biomass leading to reduction of the atmospheric Carbon dioxide levels. Management of forests and agroforestry systems is identified as the most promising option to mitigate atmospheric Carbon dioxide (CO 2). The objective of the present study was to investigate the carbon storage of homegardens located in the dry intermediate zone of Sri Lanka. Homegardens were selected based on the agro ecological regions and three homegardens each were taken for detailed studies in the 5 agro ecological regions (IL1), (IL2), (IL3), (IL1–L2), (IL1–L3) and the locations of the gardens were Kurunegala, Chilaw, Mahiyangana, Monergala, Wellawaya and Tangalle. In each garden transects were laid to capture the maximum diversity using the Point Centre Quarter Method (PCQM) and a sampling intensity of around 60% was obtained from each garden. Dbh and height were measured in each tree. Non woody trees and woody trees having < 1cm dbh were excluded. Allometric regression equation AGB = 0.0509 x q D2H [AGB – abovegroud biomass (kg); D – dbh (cm) and H (height (m)] was used to estiamte the aboveground biomass while W c =W * 0.5 (W c –carbon weight, W – above ground dry weight) was used to estimate the carbon content. According to the results, 55 woody species were recorded from the homegardens. The aboveground carbon stock was highest in the gardens in Chilaw (345.88 t/ha) followed by gardens in Wellawaya (287.41 t/ha), gardens in Kurunegala (274.66 t/ha), gardens in Tangalle (229.57 t/ha), gardens in Mahiyangana (191.32 t/ha). The gardens in Moneragala recorded the lowest 9149.58 t/ha).
The rising global population and depleting aquifers will lead to a global water crisis in differe... more The rising global population and depleting aquifers will lead to a global water crisis in different perspectives. In this context business world will face physical risk, reputational risk, regulatory risk, and financial risk that may translate into increased costs and/or reduced revenues. Presently most of the corporate sector is working towards to efficient water management in their business operations to overcome the farseeing water related risks. Water footprint is the one of the emerging tool to assess the total impact to the water by an entity. This study emphasizes the business valve of estimation of product water footprint for a Sri Lankan tea product to capture the competitive advantage in global market. The aim of this study is to assess the 'virtual water footprint' through life cycle of a tea production, mainly focusing on the fresh water consumption starting from the cultivation stage of green tea leaves and continuing on to tea processing and transportation to finally the packaging stage. The study distinguishes between three types of impact: evaporation of infiltrated rainwater for tea growth (green water use), withdrawal of ground-or surface water for irrigation or processing (blue water use) and water pollution during growth or processing. The latter impact is quantified in terms of the dilution volume necessary to assimilate the pollution (Gary water). For the study, virtual water footprints of six flavours of tea products were analysed according to the water footprint manual published by water Footprint Network. According to the study, the average virtual water footprint of the 1.5 g tea bag from the green leaf production up to the manufacturer's gate for black tea is 19.8 liters (l), green tea is 18.46 l and average virtual water footprint for flavoured tea is 20.22 l ± 7.04 l per tea bag. Average virtual water footprint for the ingredients including raw tea and flavors contribute 93.6% for the total water footprint and the 6.4% of the total water footprint accountable for the virtual water footprint of the packaging materials.
Forest and forest products have a vital role in mitigation of the global climate change. The main... more Forest and forest products have a vital role in mitigation of the global climate change. The main objective of this study was to assess the carbon emissions in the manufacturing of wood products taking an example of the production of an arm chair using life cycle assessment approach (LCA) which provides a methodological framework for evaluating environmental performance over the life cycle of a product, process, or an activity. The product Carbon Footprint was assessed for a typical wooden arm chair manufactured in an average sawmill. Assessment boundary was cradle to grave. The system boundary encompasses each product manufacturing process including material (logs, wood, resin, fuels) transport to each production facility. Transportation distances were reported in surveys and used to calculate product transported per kilogram–kilometers (kg-km). The embedded C flux in harvested timber, GHG emissions and the flow of embedded CO 2 stock during the processing were analysed. The cumulative system boundary includes all upstream flows of energy, fuel, and raw material for production. Energy consumed during transportation between the harvesting life-cycle stage and manufacturing accounts for actual distances reported from each production region. The functional unit for the product was referenced to 1 m 3 of the product. All input and output data within the cumulative system boundary were allocated to the functional unit of product and co-products in accordance with International Organisation for Standardisation. The data represent average regional data from sample studies. Umberto for Carbon Software was used for the analysis. The total life cycle consists of 08 stages, raw material and timber harvesting, timber depot operations, log conversions, wood preservation, timber seasoning, manufacturing, use phase, end of use/ final disposal. Based on the calculations, percentages of GHG emissions in each stage of life cycle were 54% for raw material and timber harvesting, 4% for timber depot operations, 11% for log conversions, 5% wood preservation, 1% for timber seasoning, 12% for manufacturing and 13% for use phase and end of use/final disposal. From the above results it is apparent that as carbon emissions are greatest at the timber harvesting stage, measures should be taken to introduce more efficient and effective machinery and methodologies to reduce the emissions.
Tsunami, the ki lIer wave swept nearly two thirds of the coast of Sri Lanka on 26lh of December, ... more Tsunami, the ki lIer wave swept nearly two thirds of the coast of Sri Lanka on 26lh of December, 2004. About 40,000 people died and around 500,000 people were displaced, more than 119,000 houses damaged either fully or partially. About 13 coastal districts were directly affected, the north and east suffered the brunt of the blow accounting for about 2/3 of deaths and 60% of displacements. In terms of ecological aspects, with the exception of few species, most of the vegetation suffered total or partial death, lagoons, estuaries, coral reefs, sea grass beds, salt marshes and mangroves experienced the damage at varying levels. Th is study was conducted with the patronage of the Food and Agricultural
Organisation of the UN to scientifically assess the response of the coastal ecosystems with special reference to coastal forests to the Tsunami, almost one and half years of the incident. The study focused on 5 tsunami affected districts namely, Kalutara, Galle, Matara, Hambantota and Arnpara. In each district, approximately 6 sampling locations selected based on the topography maps and ground information. In each sampling location, a transect which was 10m wide and upto 250m inland was taken. The transect was divided into 50m blocks, the first one laid at the start of vegetation line of the beach. In each 50m section of the transect, all the plant species were enumerated. For the ground vegetation, percentage ground cover was taken. Using an index, the level of damage was evaluated for each plant. Composite soil samples were taken at each 50m segment and analysed for electrical Conductivity, Soil Organic Carbon and major nutrients. Water samples were taken from existing wells located close by. Although most of the vegetation, except for few exceptions, suffered badly at the time of Tsunami, there was extensive regeneration on the coast at the time of our study. The species which suffered the tsunami damage most were Palmyrah palm (Borassus fabellifer), Del (Artocarplls nobilis), Araliya ), Puwak (Areca catechu), Banana (Musa spp; Kitul (Caryota urens), Guava (Psidium guajava), Avacardo pears (Persea gratissima, trees of Citrus family ie Oranges, Lemon, Lime (Citrus spp.) Alstonia, Teak (Tectona grandis) etc. Of these, most of the species had regenerated to varying degrees, the most difficult ones being Araliya, Palmyrah, plants of citrus family, Kitul, Guava. With a view to find out the species which are more robust in the regeneration, percentage ground cover (in ground vegetation) and relative abundance (in tree/shrub vegetation) were taken in each 50m segment of a plot. The districts did not vary significantly in the biodiversity. However, the species abundance showed a significant variation especially between the districts ofthe western coast (Kalutara,
Galle, Matara) with that of south and eastern coasts (Hambantota and Ampara). While Mudu bim thamburu (Ipomea pescaprae) was the most prominent ground cover in the western districts, Maha ravana ravul (Spinifex spp.) was more prominent in both south and eastern districts. With regard to the abundance of trees/shrubs, Wetakeiyya (Pandanus spi, Coconuts (Cocos nucifera), Gam suriya (Thespesia spp.), Mudilla (Barringtonia spp.), Domba were most abundant. In the South and Easterndistricts, Maliththan (Woodfordiafruitocosa), Andara (Prosopis juliflora), Palmyrah palm, Cashew nut (Anacardium occidentale) and Neem iAzadirachta indica), Indi, (Phoenix spp) Korakaha/
Kayan (Memecylon angustifoliumi were prominent. In the South and South-eastern districts, Aththana (Datura mete/), Wal kochchi had spread into invasive levels while the regeneration of Ranawara
(Cassia auriculata) also had increased. With regard to the physical parameters, soil carbon content showed a decrease with the increase in
distance from the beach. The Electrical Conductivity (EC) also showed a decreasing trend with the increasing distance from the beach in all the districts studied. In general, all the nutrients (Total N, Available P, Available K, Ca, Mg and Na) showed an increase upto about 50m compared to that of non tsunami levels and then decreased. The pH of the water samples taken in all the districts were between 7-8 indicating a neutral level while the EC values were higher than the standard of 4 mil
semens. With regard to the establishment of Green Belt, the coastal area could be broadly categorized into natural, rural and urban landscapes. For the natural landscapes like mangroves, sand dunes and coastal
forests, facilitation/restoration of the natural vegetation is recommended. Selection of species should be in line with the naturally occurring ones in the ecosystem. In total locations, planting a strip of
natural littoral woodland and strand plants seaward of agricultural crops is suitable. For urban locations, patches of natural vegetation could be integrated as far as possible with the most suitable concept for
the area. There could be open grassed/sandy/paved parks or playgrounds or sports grounds of various sizes, provided there is a substantial belt of trees on the seaward side, and in cyclone prone areas,
wind shelter belts on all sides. In cyclone prone areas, wind shelter belts should be planted around crops and settlements: the trees and shrubs used could be introduced species as well as indigenous/ native (found naturally in Sri Lanka) and endemic (found naturally only in Sri Lanka) species. The design of the Green belt should include both ground vegetation, shrubs and then trees. Based on the study results, composition of the vegetation for both ground vegetation, shrub layer and the tree layer has been proposed for all the 5 districts. In the tree layer, there were two distinctions, one for the bio shield which is located at close proximity to the sea and then the trees outside the bio shield comprising of more multipurpose ones serving both protection and production purposes. Further, general designs were recommended for the west coast and southeast and eastern coasts. Guidelines were also proposed for rehabilitation of the mangrove areas and sand dunes.
One of the most sensitive problems facing the conservation and management of Horton Plains Nation... more One of the most sensitive problems facing the conservation and management of Horton Plains National Park is the spreading of Ulex europeus (gorse), an invasive plant species. To effectively manage and control this species it is necessary to have a sound knowledge of its distribution within this park. This study was carried out to find the extent and distribution of Ulex europeus in the park and finally to prepare a map showing the extent and distribution. The percent coverage was assessed using 2m x 2m quadrats. In each quadrat percentage cover of reproductive and non-reproductive plants were measured. According to the results of this study, about 6ha of the area is covered by Ulex europeus. Total amount of the area which covers more than 80% of Ulex europeus is 2.4ha. The area which consists of less than 8O%, of Ulex europeus is 3.3Iha. Findings on the distribution pattern or the species show that the area around the main gate and Farr Inn guest house is the most densely and continuously distributed area with more than 80% coverage of Ulex europeus. Except this there are few isolated patches on either side of the road and trail with more than 80% coverage of Ulex europeus. The distribution of the Ulex europeus plants arc mainly restricted along the stream from Black bridge to Gem pit pool. The density of the species gradually decreased from up stream to down stream hut it was higher in the areas where water is stagnated along the stream. It is interesting to note that there are no plants of Ulex europces found inside the natural forest except at the margins of the forest.
Eucalyptus grandis is an important timber species in plantation forestry in Sri Lanka. E. grandis... more Eucalyptus grandis is an important timber species in plantation forestry in Sri Lanka. E. grandis was selected for this study, assuming that maintaining of E. grandis plantations for carbon trading projects would provide an additional market value for this species with the current interest on global climate change mitigation, as forest plantations play an important role in carbon sequestration and carbon trading. However, there is no proper mechanism to estimate the amount of sequestered carbon in E. grandis stems. The primary objective of this study was to construct a precise model to predict stem carbon content of E. grandis individuals with the intention of calculating the value addition for E. grandis timber. To collect data, four study sites were selected from Nuwara Eliya (Kandapola and Bogawanthalawa), Badulla (Haputhale) and Ratnapura (Pinnawala) Districts to represent upcountry, intermediate zone and wet zone where E. grandis is confined to. Each plantation was divided into three strata and a 0.05 ha circular sample plot was laid out in each stratum. Each individual in the plot was measured for total tree height, canopy height and diameter at breast height. Plantation age was recorded from FORDATA database of Forest Department of Sri Lanka. Core sample from the stem at breast height was extracted and carbon content was calculated using loss-on-ignition method by oven-drying at 105 o C and igniting at 450 o C. The carbon content in the stem was estimated by aggregating this value. Simple linear regression method was used in model construction using MINITAB statistical package. The selected explanatory variables for the model construction were tree diameter at breast height (DBH) and total tree height (TTH) of individuals. The constructed model to predict stem carbon content of Eucalyptus grandis is; log Carbon content of the stem =-2.88 + 2.19 log DBH + 1.40 log TTH The final model is able to predict the stem carbon content of E. grandis up to 98% reliability. According to model validation, the model could be used in the real world. Results of comparison of actual, predicted and assumed carbon content showed that there is a significant difference between the three methods (P=0.001). The assumed carbon content, obtained assuming 50% of the biomass is carbon, is significantly different from actual carbon content obtained by laboratory experiment and predicted carbon content, obtained by the constructed model. However, there is no significant difference between actual carbon content and carbon content predicted using the model. A majority (86%) of the collected samples contained a greater stem carbon content than the assumption that 50% of the biomass is carbon. These results indicate that use of the constructed model to predict stem carbon content of E. grandis will provide more precise results than the 50% assumption which is in practice at present.
Asia Pacific Journal of Tourism Research, 2011
The tourism industry plays a key role in regional and destination development. As negative enviro... more The tourism industry plays a key role in regional and destination development. As negative environmental and socio-cultural impacts of mass tourism become more common, the appeal of alternative forms of tourism, especially ecotourism, continues to increase. With rising demand, ecotourism operators are facing the task of meeting expectations of diverse consumers of ecotourism products. Accordingly, the need to define and distinguish ecotourists from other types of tourists has become important. The importance of using a behavioral approach to distinguish ecotourists from other types of tourists is emphasized by tourism scholars. This study developed distinct motivational and behavioral profiles of visitors to forest-based ecotourism sites in Sri Lanka. Results identified four different types of tourists based on their behavioral and motivational characteristics: ecotourists, picnickers, egoistic tourists, and adventure tourists. Broad implications of visitor profiling are also discussed. This approach can help ecotourism operators to better tailor marketing strategies and increase visitor satisfaction.
Asia Pacific Journal of Tourism Research, 2011
The tourism industry plays a key role in regional and destination development. As negative enviro... more The tourism industry plays a key role in regional and destination development. As negative environmental and socio-cultural impacts of mass tourism become more common, the appeal of alternative forms of tourism, especially ecotourism, continues to increase. With rising demand, ecotourism operators are facing the task of meeting expectations of diverse consumers of ecotourism products. Accordingly, the need to define and distinguish ecotourists from other types of tourists has become important. The importance of using a behavioral approach to distinguish ecotourists from other types of tourists is emphasized by tourism scholars. This study developed distinct motivational and behavioral profiles of visitors to forest-based ecotourism sites in Sri Lanka. Results identified four different types of tourists based on their behavioral and motivational characteristics: ecotourists, picnickers, egoistic tourists, and adventure tourists. Broad implications of visitor profiling are also discussed. This approach can help ecotourism operators to better tailor marketing strategies and increase visitor satisfaction.
Thesis Chapters by Dr. Sampath Wahala
Despite the recognized potential of forests as an important sink to sequester carbon, accurate es... more Despite the recognized potential of forests as an important sink to sequester carbon, accurate estimates of the carbon sequestration potential of different ecosystems or their component species are lacking, especially for the different forest types present in Sri Lanka. The primary objective of the study is to determine the carbon sequestration potential of selected important natural forest ecosystems in the wet zone of Sri Lanka. In this study, completely non destructive approach, based on the basic physiology of biomass production process was used to estimate the carbon sequestration potential as a rate in ecosystem scale. Monteith (1972, 1977) showed that the rate of biomass production is directly proportionate to the amount of radiation intercepted by the foliage canopy. The above relationship can be given as: W = e R I , Where, W is the amount of total biomass (above and belowground biomass) produced and R I is the amount of radiation intercepted by canopy. The proportionality constant, e is termed as Radiation Use Efficiency (RUE). These two variables (R I and e) were determined explicitly for specific vegetation types using different approaches. R I values were estimated using hemispherical photographs obtained from 337 sampling points representing 44 transect covering four major vegetation types in wet zone in Sri Lanka. RUE values were derived by canopy level photosynthesis termed as photosynthetic RUE (PhRUE) (with generalized photosynthetic parameters) at selected locations and stand level PhRUE values were derived
Talks by Dr. Sampath Wahala
According to Sabaragamuwa University, Management Studies Faculty,
lecturer on Eco Business Manage... more According to Sabaragamuwa University, Management Studies Faculty,
lecturer on Eco Business Management, Dr. Sampath Wahala, there are
various environment management tools to measure the industrial processes. One such measure is the carbon footprint estimation. This is a measure of climate change impact. However, carbon footprint is not just carbon dioxide. It takes into account all green house gases. Therefore, there is an environment management tool referred to as carbon dioxide equivalent footprint, which measures total climate change impact of all the gases. Using this tool is beneficial to the industry as well. “An organization has to measure all energy related emissions such as electricity, transport, waste disposal and so on. We can calculate emission factors based on this. These are linked to organizations expenditure as well. Therefore, when carbon footprint reduces some of their costs would decrease.”
We invited Dr. Sampath Wahala – Lecturer and Course Coordinator at the Sabaragamuwa University of... more We invited Dr. Sampath Wahala – Lecturer and Course Coordinator at the Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka – to provide his expertise in this regard through our Expert Q&A. Our main feature highlights an excerpt from a recent publication by IUCN which draws focus to the debate on the positives and negatives of the concept of biodiversity offsetting through accruals.
Dr. Sampath Wahala – Lecturer and Course Coordinator at the Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka - provided us with his views on the questions we raised, giving us a glimpse of the potential Sri Lanka holds in terms of biodiversity accruals through reforestation initiatives.
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Papers by Dr. Sampath Wahala
The study was conducted in year 2015, with 3 years of historic data on water extraction. Video sampling method was used to estimate behaviour related water wastage on blue water footprint, hourly water use profiles were used to estimate leakages. Blue and grey water footprints were estimated using standard methodologies published by the water footprint network.
The total operational water footprint of the organization was estimated as 37.92 m3/day. The total blue water footprint is 34.40m3/day and grey water footprint is 3.528m3 /day. In the organization, water is mainly used for flushing (66%), Drinking (3%), canteen (28%), and kitchen (3%).The highest water consumption per one person for one time is shown in lunch time. When it considers different genders, the highest water consumption per person was recorded from male and highest water wastage per person was recorded from females. Saving potential of blue water footprint and the grey water footprint were also estimated.
Organisation of the UN to scientifically assess the response of the coastal ecosystems with special reference to coastal forests to the Tsunami, almost one and half years of the incident. The study focused on 5 tsunami affected districts namely, Kalutara, Galle, Matara, Hambantota and Arnpara. In each district, approximately 6 sampling locations selected based on the topography maps and ground information. In each sampling location, a transect which was 10m wide and upto 250m inland was taken. The transect was divided into 50m blocks, the first one laid at the start of vegetation line of the beach. In each 50m section of the transect, all the plant species were enumerated. For the ground vegetation, percentage ground cover was taken. Using an index, the level of damage was evaluated for each plant. Composite soil samples were taken at each 50m segment and analysed for electrical Conductivity, Soil Organic Carbon and major nutrients. Water samples were taken from existing wells located close by. Although most of the vegetation, except for few exceptions, suffered badly at the time of Tsunami, there was extensive regeneration on the coast at the time of our study. The species which suffered the tsunami damage most were Palmyrah palm (Borassus fabellifer), Del (Artocarplls nobilis), Araliya ), Puwak (Areca catechu), Banana (Musa spp; Kitul (Caryota urens), Guava (Psidium guajava), Avacardo pears (Persea gratissima, trees of Citrus family ie Oranges, Lemon, Lime (Citrus spp.) Alstonia, Teak (Tectona grandis) etc. Of these, most of the species had regenerated to varying degrees, the most difficult ones being Araliya, Palmyrah, plants of citrus family, Kitul, Guava. With a view to find out the species which are more robust in the regeneration, percentage ground cover (in ground vegetation) and relative abundance (in tree/shrub vegetation) were taken in each 50m segment of a plot. The districts did not vary significantly in the biodiversity. However, the species abundance showed a significant variation especially between the districts ofthe western coast (Kalutara,
Galle, Matara) with that of south and eastern coasts (Hambantota and Ampara). While Mudu bim thamburu (Ipomea pescaprae) was the most prominent ground cover in the western districts, Maha ravana ravul (Spinifex spp.) was more prominent in both south and eastern districts. With regard to the abundance of trees/shrubs, Wetakeiyya (Pandanus spi, Coconuts (Cocos nucifera), Gam suriya (Thespesia spp.), Mudilla (Barringtonia spp.), Domba were most abundant. In the South and Easterndistricts, Maliththan (Woodfordiafruitocosa), Andara (Prosopis juliflora), Palmyrah palm, Cashew nut (Anacardium occidentale) and Neem iAzadirachta indica), Indi, (Phoenix spp) Korakaha/
Kayan (Memecylon angustifoliumi were prominent. In the South and South-eastern districts, Aththana (Datura mete/), Wal kochchi had spread into invasive levels while the regeneration of Ranawara
(Cassia auriculata) also had increased. With regard to the physical parameters, soil carbon content showed a decrease with the increase in
distance from the beach. The Electrical Conductivity (EC) also showed a decreasing trend with the increasing distance from the beach in all the districts studied. In general, all the nutrients (Total N, Available P, Available K, Ca, Mg and Na) showed an increase upto about 50m compared to that of non tsunami levels and then decreased. The pH of the water samples taken in all the districts were between 7-8 indicating a neutral level while the EC values were higher than the standard of 4 mil
semens. With regard to the establishment of Green Belt, the coastal area could be broadly categorized into natural, rural and urban landscapes. For the natural landscapes like mangroves, sand dunes and coastal
forests, facilitation/restoration of the natural vegetation is recommended. Selection of species should be in line with the naturally occurring ones in the ecosystem. In total locations, planting a strip of
natural littoral woodland and strand plants seaward of agricultural crops is suitable. For urban locations, patches of natural vegetation could be integrated as far as possible with the most suitable concept for
the area. There could be open grassed/sandy/paved parks or playgrounds or sports grounds of various sizes, provided there is a substantial belt of trees on the seaward side, and in cyclone prone areas,
wind shelter belts on all sides. In cyclone prone areas, wind shelter belts should be planted around crops and settlements: the trees and shrubs used could be introduced species as well as indigenous/ native (found naturally in Sri Lanka) and endemic (found naturally only in Sri Lanka) species. The design of the Green belt should include both ground vegetation, shrubs and then trees. Based on the study results, composition of the vegetation for both ground vegetation, shrub layer and the tree layer has been proposed for all the 5 districts. In the tree layer, there were two distinctions, one for the bio shield which is located at close proximity to the sea and then the trees outside the bio shield comprising of more multipurpose ones serving both protection and production purposes. Further, general designs were recommended for the west coast and southeast and eastern coasts. Guidelines were also proposed for rehabilitation of the mangrove areas and sand dunes.
Thesis Chapters by Dr. Sampath Wahala
Talks by Dr. Sampath Wahala
lecturer on Eco Business Management, Dr. Sampath Wahala, there are
various environment management tools to measure the industrial processes. One such measure is the carbon footprint estimation. This is a measure of climate change impact. However, carbon footprint is not just carbon dioxide. It takes into account all green house gases. Therefore, there is an environment management tool referred to as carbon dioxide equivalent footprint, which measures total climate change impact of all the gases. Using this tool is beneficial to the industry as well. “An organization has to measure all energy related emissions such as electricity, transport, waste disposal and so on. We can calculate emission factors based on this. These are linked to organizations expenditure as well. Therefore, when carbon footprint reduces some of their costs would decrease.”
Dr. Sampath Wahala – Lecturer and Course Coordinator at the Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka - provided us with his views on the questions we raised, giving us a glimpse of the potential Sri Lanka holds in terms of biodiversity accruals through reforestation initiatives.
The study was conducted in year 2015, with 3 years of historic data on water extraction. Video sampling method was used to estimate behaviour related water wastage on blue water footprint, hourly water use profiles were used to estimate leakages. Blue and grey water footprints were estimated using standard methodologies published by the water footprint network.
The total operational water footprint of the organization was estimated as 37.92 m3/day. The total blue water footprint is 34.40m3/day and grey water footprint is 3.528m3 /day. In the organization, water is mainly used for flushing (66%), Drinking (3%), canteen (28%), and kitchen (3%).The highest water consumption per one person for one time is shown in lunch time. When it considers different genders, the highest water consumption per person was recorded from male and highest water wastage per person was recorded from females. Saving potential of blue water footprint and the grey water footprint were also estimated.
Organisation of the UN to scientifically assess the response of the coastal ecosystems with special reference to coastal forests to the Tsunami, almost one and half years of the incident. The study focused on 5 tsunami affected districts namely, Kalutara, Galle, Matara, Hambantota and Arnpara. In each district, approximately 6 sampling locations selected based on the topography maps and ground information. In each sampling location, a transect which was 10m wide and upto 250m inland was taken. The transect was divided into 50m blocks, the first one laid at the start of vegetation line of the beach. In each 50m section of the transect, all the plant species were enumerated. For the ground vegetation, percentage ground cover was taken. Using an index, the level of damage was evaluated for each plant. Composite soil samples were taken at each 50m segment and analysed for electrical Conductivity, Soil Organic Carbon and major nutrients. Water samples were taken from existing wells located close by. Although most of the vegetation, except for few exceptions, suffered badly at the time of Tsunami, there was extensive regeneration on the coast at the time of our study. The species which suffered the tsunami damage most were Palmyrah palm (Borassus fabellifer), Del (Artocarplls nobilis), Araliya ), Puwak (Areca catechu), Banana (Musa spp; Kitul (Caryota urens), Guava (Psidium guajava), Avacardo pears (Persea gratissima, trees of Citrus family ie Oranges, Lemon, Lime (Citrus spp.) Alstonia, Teak (Tectona grandis) etc. Of these, most of the species had regenerated to varying degrees, the most difficult ones being Araliya, Palmyrah, plants of citrus family, Kitul, Guava. With a view to find out the species which are more robust in the regeneration, percentage ground cover (in ground vegetation) and relative abundance (in tree/shrub vegetation) were taken in each 50m segment of a plot. The districts did not vary significantly in the biodiversity. However, the species abundance showed a significant variation especially between the districts ofthe western coast (Kalutara,
Galle, Matara) with that of south and eastern coasts (Hambantota and Ampara). While Mudu bim thamburu (Ipomea pescaprae) was the most prominent ground cover in the western districts, Maha ravana ravul (Spinifex spp.) was more prominent in both south and eastern districts. With regard to the abundance of trees/shrubs, Wetakeiyya (Pandanus spi, Coconuts (Cocos nucifera), Gam suriya (Thespesia spp.), Mudilla (Barringtonia spp.), Domba were most abundant. In the South and Easterndistricts, Maliththan (Woodfordiafruitocosa), Andara (Prosopis juliflora), Palmyrah palm, Cashew nut (Anacardium occidentale) and Neem iAzadirachta indica), Indi, (Phoenix spp) Korakaha/
Kayan (Memecylon angustifoliumi were prominent. In the South and South-eastern districts, Aththana (Datura mete/), Wal kochchi had spread into invasive levels while the regeneration of Ranawara
(Cassia auriculata) also had increased. With regard to the physical parameters, soil carbon content showed a decrease with the increase in
distance from the beach. The Electrical Conductivity (EC) also showed a decreasing trend with the increasing distance from the beach in all the districts studied. In general, all the nutrients (Total N, Available P, Available K, Ca, Mg and Na) showed an increase upto about 50m compared to that of non tsunami levels and then decreased. The pH of the water samples taken in all the districts were between 7-8 indicating a neutral level while the EC values were higher than the standard of 4 mil
semens. With regard to the establishment of Green Belt, the coastal area could be broadly categorized into natural, rural and urban landscapes. For the natural landscapes like mangroves, sand dunes and coastal
forests, facilitation/restoration of the natural vegetation is recommended. Selection of species should be in line with the naturally occurring ones in the ecosystem. In total locations, planting a strip of
natural littoral woodland and strand plants seaward of agricultural crops is suitable. For urban locations, patches of natural vegetation could be integrated as far as possible with the most suitable concept for
the area. There could be open grassed/sandy/paved parks or playgrounds or sports grounds of various sizes, provided there is a substantial belt of trees on the seaward side, and in cyclone prone areas,
wind shelter belts on all sides. In cyclone prone areas, wind shelter belts should be planted around crops and settlements: the trees and shrubs used could be introduced species as well as indigenous/ native (found naturally in Sri Lanka) and endemic (found naturally only in Sri Lanka) species. The design of the Green belt should include both ground vegetation, shrubs and then trees. Based on the study results, composition of the vegetation for both ground vegetation, shrub layer and the tree layer has been proposed for all the 5 districts. In the tree layer, there were two distinctions, one for the bio shield which is located at close proximity to the sea and then the trees outside the bio shield comprising of more multipurpose ones serving both protection and production purposes. Further, general designs were recommended for the west coast and southeast and eastern coasts. Guidelines were also proposed for rehabilitation of the mangrove areas and sand dunes.
lecturer on Eco Business Management, Dr. Sampath Wahala, there are
various environment management tools to measure the industrial processes. One such measure is the carbon footprint estimation. This is a measure of climate change impact. However, carbon footprint is not just carbon dioxide. It takes into account all green house gases. Therefore, there is an environment management tool referred to as carbon dioxide equivalent footprint, which measures total climate change impact of all the gases. Using this tool is beneficial to the industry as well. “An organization has to measure all energy related emissions such as electricity, transport, waste disposal and so on. We can calculate emission factors based on this. These are linked to organizations expenditure as well. Therefore, when carbon footprint reduces some of their costs would decrease.”
Dr. Sampath Wahala – Lecturer and Course Coordinator at the Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka - provided us with his views on the questions we raised, giving us a glimpse of the potential Sri Lanka holds in terms of biodiversity accruals through reforestation initiatives.
(49-53pp)
Sampath Wahala, Shao-chang Huang, & Liam anak Dibor
ABSTRACT
Buttresses are a mechanical adaptation that provides support to the tree. A total of 20 trees were sampled from flat and inclined sites (10 trees in each site). At the inclined site , there was a strong correlation between buttress area and diameter at breast height. Trees at the inclined site also developed a higher total buttress area compared to flat site but the difference was not significant. At the inclined site there was no significant difference in buttress area between up and downhill directed buttresses. Trees tend to develop more buttresses on the up hill side, but they are smaller. The findings suggest that trees can adapt very well to the terrain they are growing on. Other than buttress modifications, the trees may also make other adaptations below ground or in the crown to remain stable.
(66-69 pp)Foraging Distance in the Stingless Bee Trigona thoracica
Sampath Wahala & Pien Huang
ABSTRACT
The foraging patterns of stingless bees are dependent on resource availability. Human
alterations to natural areas will affect the condition of local habitats, and influence the bees’
foraging behavior. In this study, we assessed the familiarity of Trigona thoracica with two distinct
habitats. We found that T. thoracica foraged further into the densely wooded habitat (3.676 km)
than in the altered, semi-natural habitat (1.973 km), indicating a preference for the forested
environment.