bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kontekst polityczny Konstytucji z Kadyksu z 1812 r.
Authors: González Caizán Cristina
Published: February 2024

The article presents the political context of the enactment of the Constitution of Cádiz. The crisis of power in Spain, caused by the French invasion of this kingdom, lasted from 1808 to 1814. Both the majority of Spanish elites and, above all, the wide circles of society did not accept Joseph Napoleon I Bonaparte, continuing to recognise Ferdinand VII Bourbon as the legitimate king. The Spanish War of Independence created ideal conditions to act for the liberals, whose aim was to adopt a modern constitution. This paper outlines the process by which parties with divergent political views, such as absolutists, reformers and liberals, led to the enactment of the Spanish Carta Magna. After the end of the war and the return of Ferdinand VII Bourbon from France to Spain, the king refused to sign the constitution and once again governed as an absolute monarch. The Constitution of Cádiz was no longer in force and the fragility of its foundations became apparent.
Comprehension of Financial Literacy Programs in India as Gateway to Empowering Women: Gauging through Case Study Approach
Authors: Bhatia Neal
Published: February 2024

Overtime India has emerged as a global economic powerhouse; certain demographic groupings still lack general knowledge about economics and money. There has been an increasing recognition of the women entrepreneurs playing a substantial role in driving the economic growth and fostering innovation. Governments around the world have progressively focused their attention on supporting and empowering women in the business landscape. In India, various government schemes and initiatives have been introduced to provide women entrepreneurs with the necessary tools, resources, and opportunities to succeed in the competitive business world. Existing financial literacy programs for Indian female entrepreneurs need evaluation to gauge effectiveness, measure their impact, and identify participation barriers. This research aims to assess programs, study their influence, and inform improved initiatives. The study attempts in showcasing real-life success stories of the women entrepreneurs who have benefited from the scheme's financial assistance and mentorship, potential challenges, and its contribution to fostering a culture of the women entrepreneurship & the social entrepreneurship. The study assesses the effectiveness of these programs in providing guidance, skill enhancement, and networking opportunities to the aspiring and also the established women entrepreneurs. While taking into account the many socioeconomic environments that women operate in, the study offers insights into the policy measures that can best promote and empower women to become active participants in economic growth.
Seed Security for Food Security: A Situation Analysis from the Rural Home Gardens
Authors: Bandara A.M.S.M.R.S.G.  , Hansika S.T.  , De Silva D.A.M.  , Mitsuyuki T.
Published: February 2024

Seeds being a primary agricultural input, its availability, access, and affordability is directly linked to the agricultural production. Traditional home gardens, backyards, Kandyan forest gardens, and micro-agricultural systems rich in biodiversity and species, mix with the knowledge and skills of the community to manage sustainable food production systems. Therefore, the study targeted to identify the types of seed production and preservation systems available among the farming community, and to identify the impact of seed ownership on household resilience to food insecurity. Data were gathered using an initial transaction walk, and a series of focus group discussions with rural households of Imbulpe and Boralanda GN divisions of Rathnapura and Badulla districts, respectively. The study areas were selected given the diversity of the crops in the area. Sample profile included 30 farmers who were purposively selected from each GN division. Results were analyzed using descriptive statistics and it revealed the existence of two seed production and preservation systems: formal and informal. Formal seed systems included both private and public stakeholders in seed and planting material business. Farmers used these formal seed systems for commercial level cultivation of both up-country and low-country vegetables. Informal seed systems were characterized with the own production, selection, storage, and maintenance of seed banks, barter system, and community seed gifting/sharing, and purchasing locally produced seeds from the locality. Informal seed systems were identified mainly for cereals (traditional rice varieties), pulses, fruits, vegetables, and spices at home gardening level. This resulted in seed and planting material ownership retaining among the local farmers. Seed ownership is an intangible asset which empowers social and human capital status of the households. Locally bred varieties proved to be resilient to climate change and maintain the crop diversity in home gardens. Informally sourced seeds recorded comparatively low yield than the hybrid/improved seed varieties that are sourced from formal seed systems. In conclusion own seed supplies ensured food availability, minimized seasonal yield variations, and enhanced meal diversity.

Keywords: Food security, Household resilience, Seed system
Habitat Utilization and Behavioral Patterns of the Endemic Sri Lankan Green Pit Viper (Craspedocephalus trigonocephalus) in the Wet Zone of Sri Lanka
Authors: Mahaulpatha W.A.D.  , Dhananjani D.M.T.
Published: February 2024

Behavioral patterns and habitat utilization of the endemic Green Pit Viper (GPV) Craspedocephalus trigonocephalus were studied in the wet zone of Sri Lanka. The region, which is covered by the wet zone, has no significant dry periods and a moderately high mean annual rainfall of over 2,500 mm. Data collection occurred between April 2021 and March 2022 with a total of 260 hours of standardized sampling effort distributed throughout the collection period. The method used was an active search which consists of a visual search of up to six meters from the central line along each side of the quadrate. Quadrats were placed in habitats, taking each GPV sighting as the center of a quadrate. At each GPV-occupied quadrat, ambient temperature, body surface temperature, prey availability, perch position and perch light level were recorded. The day was divided into six-time periods as; early morning, morning, mid-day, evening, late evening, and night. Activity level was determined considering the number of GPV that could be visually observed. A total of 49 GPV were examined during the study. Focal animal sampling was conducted, and an ethogram was developed. A strong positive relationship was observed between ambient temperature (Ta) and body surface temperature (Ts) of GPVs (Pearson correlation r=0.936). The highest number of individuals preferred filtered sun light (57.14%). C. trigonocephalus mostly preferred distal position on the branches followed by middle and apical. There was a significant difference in the percentage of individuals with different behaviors [ANOVA, F=3.64, p<0.05]. Behavioral pattern of GPV varied in the temporal scale during the day. During the morning time slot, C. trigonocephalus spent most of the time ambushing (16.12%) and basking (6.42%) respectively. During the mid-day they spent most of their time basking (10.57%), followed by resting (7.15%). The evening, late evening, night, and early morning slots were spent mostly on ambushing. The highest average time of 239 min was spent on ambushing behavior. Feeding behavior (9.8 min) had relatively short time on average. Results of this study indicate that C. trigonocephalus is well adapted for the utilization of its preferred habitat in the wet zone, and that, it displayed behavioral patterns that vary within temporal scales, which results in more efficient and effective utilization of resources. Therefore, this study provides important insights for conservation and management of C. trigonocephalus by critically evaluating the requirements of this species. 

Keywords: Craspedocephalus trigonocephalus, Behavior, Endemic pit viper, Wet zone
Public Opinion Survey on the Status of Waste Management in Sri Lanka
Authors: Ariyasingha U.D.H.P.
Published: February 2024

Solid waste and wastewater management is a critical issue in Sri Lanka. Self-administered 18 questions were used for primary data collection covering 1,158 responses within 25 districts randomly. Age groups of the respondents and their contribution (as a percentage) for the survey were; below 18yrs (3.01%), 18-30yrs (90.59%), 30-45yrs (3.17%) and above 45yrs (1.90%). Among the respondents; 75.09% were undergraduates, 8.89% were employed, 6.13% were school students and, 5.76 were in other institutes of higher education. The time period of the survey was from 20th July 2021 to 6th August 2021. Survey was carried out using online platform (google forms). Questioner was developed to acquire information related to; solid waste, water quality (using taste as a parameter), waste disposal, disposal methods, type of wastes collected, were obtained. This was not merely a household survey, but included waste management done by Municipal councils as well. The objectives of this survey were; to find the quality of water in each area of Sri Lanka, to get an idea about household wastes and the availability of methodical waste disposal facilities, and to obtain ideas from the respondents. According to the data obtained from the survey, 83.77% of the respondents claimed that the consumed water doesn‘t contain hardness. Also, 56.30% respondents reuse household wastewater while 54.58% respondents dispose of less than 1kg of waste daily. Open dumping areas don't exist for 78.93% of the respondents, 56.39% of the respondents were aware of land-filling but 8.98 % thought that landfill process was not a good solution for garbage disposal. The disposal of non-degradable wastes to the environment was 50.07%. Burnt and open dumping percentages of household wastes were 34.54% and 10.47% respectively. Waste collection by the municipal councils does not happen systematically according to 55.01% respondents. Garbage recycling centers do not exist for 69.34% respondents. The survey showed that knowledge of waste disposal methods and environmental impacts must be improved. Awareness programs have to be conducted to acknowledge the community. Solutions from the respondents included establishing more sanitary land-filling facilities in necessary areas. Encouraging recycling of waste among the communities by conducting awareness programs about recycling companies that buy separated wastes like plastics, papers, glasses etc. which would provide an additional income. 

Keywords: Solid waste, Wastewater, Disposal, Land-filling, Garbage
Comparison of Filter Media for Wastewater Treatment by a Prototype Trickling Filter
Authors: Wijetunga S.  , Selvanayagam A.  , Samarakoon D.  , Samaraweera M.D.S.
Published: February 2024

The microbial process of wastewater treatment, attached growth, has significantly improved during recent years. Different filter media are used for microbial attached growth in trickling filters (TF) in the world. One of the main functions of filter media is the high surface area for the attachment of microorganisms to grow. Major wastewater treatment plants use stones as a medium for increasing the surface area in TFs. The proper grade of stone could not always be found within a reasonable distance from the wastewater treatment plant sites, significantly increasing transportation costs. Low-cost substitute materials, instead of stones, can reduce the cost of TF while increasing their treatment efficiency. This study attempted to use crushed waste polythene as a low-cost substitute material for stones. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the performance of prototype TF with crushed waste polythene and; to compare the treatment efficiency of two prototype TFs (with stone and with crushed waste polythene). Two prototype TFs were prepared using plastic barrels (250L) with two types of filter materials. The flow rate of the filters was 922mL/min and trickling filters were evaluated for two months for treatment efficiency. Water samples were taken before and after the trickling filter to determine the treatment efficiency. During the process of trickling filters, COD removal appeared to increase and it may be due to the adaptation of microbes to the new environment. The COD removal was comparatively higher in trickling filters with crushed polythene (62%) than in stones (42.6%). Almost similar results of pH and EC were found in both trickling filters. Total solids in treated wastewater were also almost similar in the two trickling filters. Based on the results of this study, it can be concluded that crushed polythene is a good alternative for stones in trickling filters. 

Keywords: Crushed polythene, Filter material, Stone, Trickling filter, Wastewater
Study of BOD: COD Ratio as an Indicator for Wastewater of Rubber Industry Sector
Authors: Jayasinghe J.A.W.W.  , Kiriella K.G.T.N.  , Jayarathne L.  , Priyadarshani C.  , Shiromani M.K.S.  , Rajapakshe R.M.A.O.A.
Published: February 2024

When considering the rubber industry sector, the most significant challenge is the efficient wastewater treatment before discharging it into the natural environment. The rubber industry is considered to be highly chemical and water-intensive: and involves enormous quantitative s of waste production. The ratio between Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD5) and Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) is a widely used parameter in characterising wastewater and then the same was used in this study as an indication to measure the efficiency of wastewater treatment plant operated in the rubber industry sector. Data for the study was extracted from samples collected from 10 wastewater treatment plants of rubber industries in the Sabaragamuwa Province; two samples from each representing before and after treatment. The samples were tested in two replicated for BOD5, COD, pH, and conductivity. These selected rubber factories contain lagoon/pond type wastewater treatment systems or activated sludge wastewater treatment systems. The results showed that the treated wastewater samples were within the range of 0.1–0.4 of BOD5: COD and were below the BOD5: COD permissible level as per CEA standards. (General standards for rubber in inland surface waters; Latex-BOD 60, COD 400; Lanka rubber/crepe rubber–BOD 50, COD 400) comparing the BOD, COD, pH, and conductivity influent and effluent of the treatment process proves the effectiveness of each treatment plant of the relevant industry. Tested samples show a high BOD5: COD ratio in influent and effluent of wastewater treatment system indicate that wastewater of the industry is easily biodegradable. However, more research comparing the characteristics of different rubber manufacturing processes is needed to develop this approach further. 

Keywords: BOD, COD, BOD: COD ratio, Wastewater treatment plant
Microplastic Bioaccumulation in Selected Finfish Species Harvested from Northwest Coastal Waters, Sri Lanka: A Potential Risk to Human Health?
Authors: Kandeyaya K.B.K.D.K.  , Ranatunga R.R.M.K.P
Published: February 2024

The widespread bioavailability of microplastics (MP) in the marine environment has upraised intense interest over the last few decades. However, MP trophic transfer via appetizing portions of marine organisms remains less recognized. Therefore, the present study looked at bioaccumulation potential of MPs investigating four common edible finfish species; Sardinella gibbosa, Stolephorus commersonnii, Hemiramphus archipelagicus, and Katsuwonus pelamis representing different trophic levels from Northwest Coastal waters. In the experimental protocol, the wild-caught finfish samples were analyzed considering their edible (muscle) vs non-edible (gastrointestinal (GI) tract and gills) tissues. The structural characteristics of MP materials were screened by stereomicroscope whereas elemental composition using Fourier-Transform Infrared spectroscopy. Amongst all the studied samples, around 96% exhibited MP contamination in the size range of 0.06 mm-0.11 mm. Fibers, fragments, and films were the prominent MP types detected while Polyethylene, Polypropylene, Polystyrene, and Nylon-6,6 were the polymeric substances extensively recorded. K. pelamis and S. commersonnii displayed the highest (1.1±0.54 MP/g) and lowest (0.1±0.02 MP/g) mean MP levels in edible portions, respectively. The MP quantities extracted from gills, GI tract, and flesh of each sample were significantly different (p<0.05), thereby Pearson correlation test results implied the GI tract as the major possible exposure route of higher trophic finfishes while gills act as the key direction of filter feeders. Parametric One-way ANOVA test indicated that the trophic transfer interactions in the studied finfish food chains were significant (p<0.05) at 95% level of confidence. Trophic Magnification Factors (TMF=2.347, 3.449) and Biomagnification Factors (1<BMF) of examined food chains signified that MPs are conceivably biomagnified in edible parts of marine food webs even though the contamination in edible tissues was significantly lower than that of non-edible shares as per the Two sample T-test and Mann-Whitney tests. Therefore, the findings advocate that trophic transfer denotes an oblique, yet possible key pathway of MP ingestion for any individual who depends on seafood diets habitually. Since the MPs magnification could possibly ensure the trophic dilution. However, considering the physical and chemical toxicities and associated contaminants of MPs, there is a necessity for further studies assessing the human susceptibility to MP-related hazards via the routine consumption of seafood. Addressing this gap which implies with food safety and pollution control is a vital primacy due to the nutritional value of seafood consumption. 

Keywords: Microplastic, Trophic transfer, Biomagnification, Seafood
Economic Importance of Consuming Homemade Turmeric: A Case of Kandy District in Sri Lanka
Authors: Hewage R.G.S.M.  , Malkanthi S H P.
Published: February 2024

Turmeric or Curcuma longa L. is prized in Sri Lankan cuisine for its delicate flavor, distinct yellow color, and potent aroma. This great spice is highly praised in Ayurveda medicine for its anti- inflammatory properties as well. However, unlike the ancient time, cultivation of turmeric at household level at the recent past was not so significant and the country heavily relies on imported turmeric. Short-time after COVID 19 pandemic in the country, the government banned on non- essential imports including turmeric. Due to very high price and shortage of turmeric in the market and impact of black market of turmeric, while some people adopted to cultivate turmeric in small scale some people did it at large-scales. This study was conducted to study the present situation of consumption of homemade turmeric in Kandy district of the country and understand the economic importance of it. 150 turmeric cultivators were selected for the study. Data collection was conducted using questionnaire survey from June to August 2022. Data analyses were done using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis. According to the results, it was discovered that after drying turmeric, convert into a powder and consumed by them. When economic importance are concerned, their average income was found as 11,095.238 rupees per season and average saving was found as 797.13 rupees per person per season. Also a positive relationship was found between consumption of homemade turmeric and its independent variables (family members, monthly income, interest for turmeric, and market price of turmeric) by the study. As a whole, the growers adopted to homemade turmeric as consumption of homemade turmeric is economically and hygienically very important. If there is a good market, most of the turmeric cultivators are willing to grow turmeric continuously. So, they expect proper knowledge related to do cultivation and processing of turmeric. It is very important to pay attention on this and provide proper training programs and good market price for turmeric, in order to enhance the turmeric production of the country in the future. 

Keywords: Turmeric cultivation, Homemade Turmeric, Consumption, Economic importance
A Comparison of Resources Usage for Two White-Leg Shrimp (Penaeus vannamei) Farming Systems (Earthen Pond System and Round Tank System)
Authors: Darshika K.A.N.  , De Silva D.N.  , Subasinghe R.  , Pallewatta P.K.T.N.S.
Published: February 2024

Shrimp farming plays an important role in providing nutritious food and generating livelihoods for many millions of people worldwide. Asia is the biggest producer of shrimp contributing nearly 80% of the global shrimp aquaculture production. Black tiger shrimp (Penaeus monodon) is the main brackish water aquaculture species in Sri Lanka before 2018. White-leg shrimp (Penaeus vannamei) was a new species that was introduced in 2018 expecting a rapid increase in production in the country. Shrimp farming is classified into several categories: extensive, semi-intensive, intensive, and super-intensive based on the intensity of management practices such as stocking density, supply of feed and fertilizer, and management of water qualities. The round tank system is round-shaped and is a type of lined pond that uses an impermeable geomembrane for the retention of water. It belongs to the super-intensive category. The earthen pond is a water body that is basically enclosed by the earth. It belongs to the intensive category. The purpose of this study was to assess the amounts of land, water, and energy required per ton of harvested shrimp in two different production systems and identify the most sustainable system that is used minimum natural resources. The round tank system is located in the Erukkalampiddy area in the Mannar district, Sri Lanka. The earthen pond system is located in the Maikkulama area in the Puttalam district, Sri Lanka. Data on water usage, electricity usage, land area usage, and weight of harvested shrimp were collected during two cycles of production from August 2021 to May 2022. The t-tests were performed to compare resource usages. Land usage of the earthen pond system (950.00 m2/t shrimp, 1266.67 m2/t shrimp) is significantly greater than the round tank system (190.77 m2/t shrimp, 139.33 m2/t shrimp). Water usage of the earthen pond system (950.00 m3/t shrimp, 1266.67 m3/t shrimp) is significantly greater than the round tank system (190.77 m3/t shrimp, 139.33 m3/t shrimp). Energy usage of the round tank system (473.84 kWh/t shrimp, 591.46 kWh/t shrimp) is significantly greater than the earthen pond system (119.91 kWh/t shrimp, 154.78 kWh/t shrimp). It concludes that less land and water resources and high energy usage are required for a round tank system compared to an earthen pond system. Although establishing a round tank system will need more capital, compared to that of an earthen pond system, it is evident that the round tanksystem is more environmentally sustainable. 

Keywords: Shrimp farming, Round tank system, Earthen pond system, White-leg shrimp (Penaeus vannamei)
Attitudes Towards Turtle Conservation: An Island Wide Study in Sri Lanka
Authors: Ranasinghe H.M.D.M.  , Gunawardena U.A.D.P.
Published: February 2024

Sri Lanka is visited by the five of the seven living sea turtle species recorded in the world. Sea turtle populations are declining, as is their ability to perform critical services in ocean ecosystems. Some of the obvious risks faced by marine turtles in Sri Lanka include incidental bycatch, illegal egg poaching, habitat change, destruction, and natural causes such as predation and erosion. Attitudes towards conservation of turtles and underlying motives for such attitudes is a lesser researched subject in the country. The present study therefore aims at assessing the attitudes of Sri Lankans towards conservation of sea turtles. A household survey was conducted using a pre-tested questionnaire adopting simple random sampling among 1084 households across the twenty-five districts of Sri Lanka through telephone and in-person interview from December 2021 to May 2022. The socioeconomic data of respondents, membership in a wild life or environmental organizations, recreational experience of turtles were also collected. A set of statements on sea turtles were presented for which the respondents indicated their preferences. Their willingness to contribute towards conservation was also recorded. The results of the study indicate that individuals from twenty-five districts had already been exposed to a wealth of knowledge regarding marine turtles and were well-informed. There were 603 individuals from coastal districts while 481 were from non-coastal districts. The average age was 45 years while number of respondents who had a membership of any environmental related wildlife organization was 164. Seventy four percent of the sample had seen live marine turtles; 37.6% of them had seen marine turtles in zoological gardens. Majority of respondents strongly agreed that (84% on average) sea turtles are worth protecting. Forty one percent of respondents agreed that it is everyone‘s duty to ensure the existence of plants and animals for future generations, showing that respondents had bequest motive for marine turtle conservation. Majority (63.3%) of respondents strongly agreed that sea turtles have the right to exist in the environment, showing that there is a strong existence motive for the conservation of sea turtles. The study emphasize the need to better utilize the strong motives of people for sea turtle conservation efforts in Sri Lanka that requires attention of legislators and decision-makers.

Keywords: Sea turtle, Attitudes, Conservation, Motives
Valuation of the Bar Reef Marine Sanctuary from the Perception of the Visitors
Authors: Jayaratne C.T.  , Gunawardena U.A.D.P.  , Wattage P.  , Edirisinghe J.C.
Published: February 2024

Bar Reef is a diverse ecosystem with near shore coral reefs, sea grass beds and associated ecosystems with over 120 coral species and over 300 fish species reported from the surrounding sea. It has been declared as a marine sanctuary by the Department of Wildlife Conservation in 1992. Despite of the efforts it is subjected to over exploitation by extractive users, destructive fishing practices and visitor pressure on the ecosystem. The study sought to value the ecosystem degradation prevailing in the bar reef from the perception of the visitors using choice experiment method. Different attributes for the choice experiment were identified using two focus group discussions and 10 key informant interviews held prior to the mail survey. Identified attributes were level of plastic accumulated, use of illegal fishing nets, level of crowding and monetary contribution. An orthogonal main effect design was generated and 9 choice cards were prepared, each with 4 different attributes. Randomly selected 250 visitors were interviewed onsite during January to June 2021 and conditional logit model was used to analyze the significance of their preferences. Paying LKR 1,000, reducing crowding the beach area by 15% and reduction of plastic and polythene by 50% were the significant factors according to the results obtained at α=0.01. People are willing to pay LKR 1,001.18 if plastic pollution can be reduced by 50%. People are willing to pay LKR 998.92 if the crowding of the beach can be reduced by 15%. The results of this research emphasize the importance of protecting this habitat to the relevant stakeholders. Further, this research will enable to introduce new policies and practices so that sustainability of the ecosystem can be ensured.

Keywords: Ecosystem sustainability, Choice experiment, Conditional logit, Marine plastic pollution, Visitor access management
Estimation of Aboveground and Belowground Carbon Stocks in Homegardens of Low Country Wet Zone, Sri Lanka
Authors: Nilupuli M. D.  , Lokupitiya E. Y. K.
Published: February 2024

Homegardens are one of the most significant and oldest types of land use systems in Sri Lanka which have been recognized as an essential component in providing a variety of ecosystem services. In these systems, trees and shrubs are grown together with food crops under family labor, creating a multitude of biological interactions. Due to rich tree diversity and density, homegarden agroforestry systems are known to have a great capacity to capture and store carbon in their biomass and soil, and thus greatly contribute to mitigation of climate change. Even though the importance of homegardens with regard to the above is highlighted significantly, large knowledge gaps remain on their total carbon storage potential, particularly in low country wet zone homegardens of Sri Lanka. Therefore, the current study aims to estimate the total aboveground and belowground carbon stocks of homegardens in Kalutara district. The study was conducted in ten homegardens ranging from 0.15 Ha to 0.43 Ha. The study focused on all perennial woody trees present in the homegardens. Heights and diameters at breast height (DBH) were measured in a total of 966 woody trees. Aboveground biomass of each tree was calculated nondestructively, using allometric equations which incorporated wood density, DBH and tree height. Belowground biomass was calculated using root: shoot ratios of trees. Total biomass of each tree was converted to total carbon stocks using a conversion factor of 0.5 extracted from literature, considering that total carbon stock of a tree is equivalent to half of its biomass. In order to get the total carbon stock, soil organic carbon (SOC) content of each home garden was analyzed in the laboratory from collected soil samples using the Loss-on-ignition method. Belowground biomass carbon stock and the SOC stock together were taken as the total belowground carbon stock of each homegarden. Estimated mean aboveground carbon stock was 91.4±11.4 Mg ha-1, while the mean belowground carbon stock was determined as 134.3±12.3 Mg ha-1 in low country wet zone home gardens. Aboveground carbon stock, together with the belowground carbon stock, was taken as the total carbon stock of the homegardens. Calculated total carbon stock per unit area for low country wet zone homegardens ranged between 179.873 Mg ha-1 and 286.606 Mg ha-1 with a mean value of 225.7±11.9 Mg ha-1. Above findings of the study present evidence for significant carbon storage capacity of low country wet zone homegardens.

Keywords: Homegarden, Low country, Wet zone, Carbon stock, Climate change
Climate Injustice in Sri Lanka through the Lens of Flooding Events
Authors: Gunawardena D.H.  , Wickramasinghe D.
Published: February 2024

Climate change is an issue of social justice as much as it is an issue of the environment. The impacts of climate change induced disasters are known to be felt disproportionately by those in the low socio-economic status. Against this backdrop, this paper investigates flood disasters in the light of climate injustice and the impacts on the socio-economic rights of affected communities in the Gampaha district. The present study used a cross-sectional study design with qualitative data from key informant interviews and quantitative data from secondary sources and primary data from a questionnaire-based survey in 200 households in the most affected Grama Niladhari Divisions of Wattala and Kelaniya Divisional Secretariat Divisions (DSDs). Receipt of Samurdhi relief was considered to represent the low socio-economic status. The study mobilized the disaster risk assessment factors and the findings revealed that those of low socio-economic status were of a significantly higher risk (Chi squared test, p<0.05) to flooding in terms of proximity to flooding source, structural vulnerability of housing, poor coping up ability, limited risk reduction measures and lack of opportunities to build resilience. Consequently, a significantly higher proportion (Chi squared test, p<0.05) of those of low socio-economic status were found to have faced difficulties in enjoying the aspects of the right to standard of living namely, right to health, water, food and adequate housing. In conclusion, floods have resulted in an injustice to those of low socio-economic status due to their disproportionately higher risk to flooding and the resultant impact on the full enjoyment of their socio-economic rights.

Keywords: Climate change, Climate injustice, Floods, Socio-economic rights, Low socio-economic status
Review of Climate Change's Impacts on Tea Quality
Authors: Jayawardhana, J.M.S.S.
Published: February 2024

Subsequent to water, tea is the most consumed beverage worldwide. Tea could be identified as one of the oldest drinks prevailing since prehistorical era. This article's objective is to expedite that there is any significant impact on the major four aspects of Tea namely quality—aroma, taste, color, and yield with climate change. While observing on how climate patterns affect the Tea yield and quality, Tea farmers who has long cultural traditions of managing tea plantations are among the most knowledgeable people according to the literature review. Warmer temperatures, increased weather unpredictability such as higher rain variability, and altered plant phenology, such as earlier bud burst, are just a few of the reported alterations. These tea growers assert that such weather variations directly affect commercial tea gardens. An early tea harvest is linked to higher temperatures. Extreme droughts, which are thought to have become more common recently, are associated with drier tea leaves with less blossoming. It is also said that tea harvested during a drought has a substantially stronger flavor and scent. Farmers report that tea harvested during exceptionally rainy periods has lovely leaves and increased blooming but a relatively watered-down flavor and scent. The drought this spring has benefited tea production since consumers enjoy the robust aroma and sticky-sweet aftertaste of the beverage. In the absence of any other changes, a rise in average temperatures imposed on by global warming will lessen the production of tea plantations. Climate change will have a higher impact on tea yield than any other tea characteristics, such as aroma, taste, or color. In addition to immediate benefits such research studies, actions to lessen the vulnerability of tea plantations to heat and precipitation variability will also aid in climate change adaptation.

Keywords: Climate Change, Aroma, Color, Taste, Yield
Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices among Medical Officers on Disaster Preparedness: Study from Base Hospital Panadura (BHP) and Kethumathi Maternity Hospital (KMH), Panadura in Western Province
Authors: Kumara P.G.H.  , Pathirana T.E.A.  , Wickramasinghe D.D.  , Premasiri H.M.R.
Published: February 2024

Climate change is contributing to increased disasters in the world. As the disaster events are rising, health, socio-economic and political consequences are inevitable. Therefore, managing disasters to reduce the risk and impacts is given high priority in any development agendas. In this context, emergency and disaster preparedness have become a vital element in disaster management. To manage disaster induced health impacts that include deaths and injuries, hospitals play a major role. The objective of this study was to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of medical officers on disaster preparedness in two key hospitals in the country. The present study focused on the medical officers in Base Hospital Panadura (BHP) and Kethumathi Maternity Hospital (KMH) regarding disaster preparedness. Cross-sectional research was designed to collect data from the health personnel working in two hospitals through a questionnaire which was prepared and distributed online. Data were collected from 95 and 17 doctors, who were randomly chosen, from BHP and KMH respectively. The majority of the respondents (93%) stated that hospital disaster preparedness plans could assist in reducing morbidity and mortality during an event of a disaster. In both hospitals, 40% of respondents were familiar with the disaster preparedness (DP) programs and 60 % were aware that such programs exist in their hospital. Around 67% and 65% of the medical officers from BHP and KMH respectively had stated that the prior experience of the medical officers is the key to handling a post disaster health management. The statistical analysis indicated that knowledge and practices of the medical officers were significantly linked to DP while the attitudes of the participants did not demonstrate any link to the DP programs. In summary, enhancing knowledge and good practices aiming at post disaster medical care as well as enhanced disaster preparedness activities among the medical officers contribute to disaster risk reduction.

Keywords: Disaster preparedness, Knowledge, Attitudes, Practices, Medical officers
Analysis of Climate Variable and Fisherman Perception on Climate Change Divers in Negombo Lagoon Area
Authors: Fernando R.  , Bellanthudawa B.K.A.  , Halwatura D.
Published: February 2024

Climate change has undoubtedly become one of the most contentious issues in the international environmental debates and has escalated the impacts on fishery industries and fishing communities globally. This study was conducted to quantify the variations in climate variables, and coastal vegetation that may affect the fisheries industry due to climate change over past three decades in the Negombo lagoon area. Further, the knowledge and awareness of fisheries and associated communities on climate change was investigate. To understand the dynamics of the precipitation and temperature, monthly data for 30 years (1989-2022) were collected from the Department of Meteorology and 19 Module Bio-climatic Variables (MBV) were calculated to determine the climatologycal variation. The change in the coastal vegetation was analyzed using the Landsat 8 satellite using ArcGIS 10.8. A questionnaire survey and a focus group discussion were carried out as assess the knowledge, awareness and impact of climate change in the fisheries community (n=80). The mean annual and minimum and maximum precipitation ranged from 118.6 mm-268.6 and 0.6 mm - 826.6 mm. The mean, maximum, and minimum temperatures varied from 28.8o C- 32.3o C, 33o C-34o C and 29o C-30o C. Out of 19 MBV variables, 9 variables had increasing trends while 3 variables had decreasing trend. The change percentage of coastal vegetation cover from 1992-2002, 2002-2012, 2012-2022 was observed as 35.71%, 4.99% and 6.13%. As per the peoples‘ knowledge of climate change, it was highlighted that around 50% of respondents does not have a proper idea on what is climate change (40% of respondents stated that the variation of precipitation and wind is the climate change drivers; Further, 40% of respondents attested that land use change with time has accelerated climate change while 30% of respondents mentioned that lack of coastal awareness and restoration programs is the second main reason for accelerated climate change that affect the fishery industry). The outcomes of the focus group discussion revealed that fishing activities are heavily affected by climate change drivers, and some engage in alternative jobs in extreme climatic conditions to feed their families. Finally, fishery communities highlighted the need for the government and other responsible authorities to take necessary actions to adapt and strengthen the resilience to climate change. This study corroborates the timely and topical obligation for sustainable fisheries management action planning for the Negombo area.

Keywords: Climate change, Coastal mangrove vegetation-precipitation-temperature change, Fisheries communities, Knowledge, Awareness, Negombo
A Study on the Potentiality of Bioethanol Production from Selected Weed Species of the Asteraceae Family
Authors: Alwis W.L.N.S.  , Pratheepkumar M.  , Ranganathan K.
Published: February 2024

Increasing population growth, industrialization, and the harmful impacts of fossil fuel burning on the environment fascinated the researchers to find a low-cost, environmentally friendly alternative substitute. A potential substitute feedstock for the synthesis of second-generation bioethanol is the lignocellulosic biomass from invasive weedy plants. The aim of this study was to determine the potential of bioethanol production from two weedy plant species using physical, chemical, and physiochemical pretreatment methods, as well as to optimize the pretreatment and culture conditions to obtain a higher reducing sugar amount and ethanol yield. The collected invasive weedy plants, Chromolaena odorata and Tridax procumbens, were cleaned, then pretreated with different acids and bases (4% v/v) at 121oC for 15 min. Then the filtrate was incubated with Saccharomyces cerevisiae (baker‘s yeast) in the peptone yeast extract and nutrient medium (PYN) at room temperature, the pH was maintained at 5.0. T. procumbens plant substrate with the performic acid pretreatment agent produced a significant amount (0.2%) of ethanol, and further studies were conducted with the same substrate and the pretreatment agent. The conditions were optimized successively by changing one factor at a time while keeping the other variables constant. Several important hydrolysis factors were studied for the optimization, including performic acid concentration (0.2–5%), hydrolysis time (10–60 min), fermentation time (24–120 h), inoculum concentration (1.25–7.5 g/100 ml), and rotation speed (50–250 rpm). The maximum ethanol yield of 0.47% was observed at 0.6% performic acid concentration, 30 min of hydrolysis time, 48 h of fermentation time, 5 g/100 ml of inoculum concentration, and 100 rpm rotation speed with T. procumbens using S. cerevisiae.

Keywords: Bioethanol, Lignocellulosic biomass, Acid hydrolysis, Saccharomyces cerevisiae
In vitro Screening of Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Activities of Plant Extract Adenanthera pavonina
Authors: Wijesekara M.A.  , Goonerathne L.V.  , Soysa P.  , Perera D.B.  , Jayasena S.  , Jayasiri A.  , Kottahachchi D.U.
Published: February 2024

Adenanthera pavonina (AP) is a medicinal herb used in traditional systems of medicine in Sri Lanka. It is considered a rich source of bioactive compounds as they are able to produce a great variety of secondary metabolites with great anticancer and antioxidant properties. In the present study, the bark of the plant was used and water extract was prepared in order to screen Total Phenolic Content (TPC), Total Flavonoid Content (TFC), Ferric ion reducing power, DPPH radical scavenging capacity, inhibition of lipid peroxidation, inhibition of protein oxidation and inhibition deoxyribose oxidation. Anti-inflammatory activity was screened in vitro using Human Red Blood cell Membrane stability assay (HRBM) and inhibition of protein denaturation assay. All methods were carried out according to the standard protocol. The TPC and TFC were 80.3±0.1 mg GA/g (Gallic Acid/g) and 46.1±0.1 mg EGCG/g (epigallocatechin gallate /g) respectively. The DPPH radical scavenging capacity, inhibition of lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation and deoxyribose oxidation were IC50, 15.8±0.5 (Gallic acid, 4.5±0.3 μg/ml), 46.1±0.5 μg/ml (Ascorbic acid , 58.4±2.2 μg/ml), 72.6±3.1 μg/ml (Ascorbic acid, 51.2±0.1 μg/ml) and 7.4±0.7 μg/ml (Ascorbic acid, 8.7±0.6 μg/ml) respectively. Reducing power of the AO extract increased with the concentration. HRBM and inhibition of BSA denaturation of AO extract were IC50 that 49.7±1.4 μg/ml (Diclofenac sodium, 47.8±2.1 μg/ml) and 29.1±1.5 (Diclofenac sodium 23.8±3.6 μg/ml) respectively. The results of the study suggest that the bioactive molecules present in the AP water extract can be used as a prototype for the development of new drugs or as a source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory pharmaceutical raw material.

Keywords: Adenanthera pavonina, Inhibition of lipid peroxidation, Inhibition of protein oxidation, Inhibition deoxyribose oxidation.
Exploring the Potential of Geotourism with a Focus on Kahagolla Landslides Area in Sri Lanka
Authors: Senavirathna C.
Published: February 2024

Geotourism is a new type of tourism based on geological features. As such, the primary goal of this research is to identify the possibility of converting protected natural hazard areas into profitable Geotourism sites. A geologic hazard visible in the geological environment is a natural event that occurs within the earth's crust which poses a threat to life and property. One such example is landslides. The Kahagolle landslide area is 3.5 ha in size and landslide prevention and mitigation activities have been conducted here as part of a Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) project costing millions of rupees. The attractiveness and profitability of this location lie in the availability of different landslide mitigation methods within a single area. Located along the Beragala-Hali Ela highway (A16) in close proximity to Haputale and Bandarawela, the site has the potential to attract many domestic as well as international tourists who visit the central hills of Sri Lanka. This was an inductive study using field observations as primary data, and content analysis of published papers and NBRO documents that have been used as secondary, qualitative data. The main conclusion drawn based on the results is that there certainly is a possibility of improving this area as a Geotourism site aimed at foreign and local tourists mainly for educational purposes. The recommendation is to build an information center with the capacity to raise awareness and enhance knowledge about the history of this landslide, the geological quality of the area along with details of the mitigation project. As such, tickets could be issued, and the site arranged into zones from top to bottom while the methods used could be shared with visitors.

Keywords: Geotourism, Landslides as tourist sites, Mitigation activities
Light Spectral Regimes under a Closed and Dense Canopy: Evidence from Mesua ferrea Trees for Human Comfort in Urban Landscape Planning
Authors: Makuloluwa M.W.H.B.K.  , Dahanayaka P.D.  , Silva K.S.U.S.  , Indramali O.S.  , Makuloluwa M.W.L.B.  , Beneragama C.K.
Published: February 2024

Trees play an important role in urban landscape planning due to their multi-faceted functions including the provision of human comfort through shade and cooling and air pollution abatement. Mesua ferrea is the national tree of Sri Lanka with multi-colored leaves and pyramidal dense canopy architecture, which can be promoted to grow in roadside gardens and parks to gain more attraction and attention. It is important to know how different trees provide human comfort under the canopy. In the present study, we measured the transmittance spectra in the 318-885 nm range using a high-resolution spectroradiometer under the canopy of selected Mesua ferrea trees on bright sunny days. The change in shade casting on the ground during the day was modeled. In addition, the temperature, CO2, and relative humidity were also measured. The light transmittance through the canopy is reduced when moving from the outer edge of the canopy (1,142 μW.cm-2.nm1) to the trunk-base (0.82 μW.cm-2.nm-1) on the horizontal plane. It was obvious that the irradiance received closer to the base of the tree is not sufficient to support the understory plant growth. The irradiance levels of blue (B: 400-500 nm), red (R: 650-680 nm), and far-red (FR: 700-885 nm) components of the transmittance spectra under the canopy were also found significantly low compared to sunlight, with significantly altered R:B, R:FR and B:FR ratios. Importantly, a 14 fold cut down in the UV radiation (318-400 nm) under the canopy beyond half of the canopy diameter towards the trunk was also observed. Under the canopy, there was a temperature reduction of about 1° C on bright sunny days perhaps due to the reduced irradiance and the altered spectrum, and the reduced CO2 concentration (by 5%). We identified that the Mesua trees are suitable for human comfort, and thus can be recommended for roadside planting and for public parks in urban landscape planning.

Keywords: Shade caste, Radiation spectrum, Mesua ferrea, Landscape planning, Urban planning