National Development Bank PLC

Twenty-four staff members from NDB Bank participated in a meaningful volunteer initiative on 10 October 2025 at the Anawilundawa Wetland Sanctuary, a vital Ramsar site in Sri Lanka. The programme was conducted under the Life of Our Mangrove project, in collaboration with Biodiversity Sri Lanka (BSL) and The Wildlife & Nature Protection Society (WNPS).

The session began with representatives from BSL and WNPS briefing the volunteers on the project’s objectives and the ecological importance of mangrove restoration. Participants were also introduced to invasive species in the area, with special emphasis on Ipil Ipil (Leucaena leucocephala), which poses a significant threat to the Anawilundawa Wetland Sanctuary.

Following the briefing, volunteers were divided into four groups to conduct a systematic vegetation survey, identifying and documenting the spread of Ipil Ipil and other plant species across allocated plots. The team also planted 150 true mangrove seedlings, contributing directly to habitat restoration.

The data collected during this exercise will serve as the baseline study for the project team, enabling them to plan and execute the targeted removal of invasive Ipil Ipil. This science-based approach ensures that restoration efforts are well-informed and effective.

Through their active participation, NDB staff contributed directly to safeguarding one of Sri Lanka’s most ecologically significant wetland environments. The programme reflects the bank’s commitment to environmental stewardship and collaborative conservation action.

This ongoing effort is part of the Life of Our Mangroves project, a collaborative Public-Private-Community Partnership and multi-partner initiative involving NDB Bank, BSL, the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC), Wayamba University (WUSL), and other private sector partners. NDB partnered with ‘Biodiversity Sri Lanka’ (BSL) to restore 1 hectare of degraded mangrove forest, within a period of 5 years.

Since its inception in 2022, the project has progressed successfully. The science-based approach has provided valuable insights to overcome challenges and achieve better mangrove growth rates. Community involvement has also been a key element of this journey.

By enhancing ecological functions, habitat quality, and species diversity, the project contributes significantly to biodiversity and ecosystem services, aligning closely with NDB’s commitment to sustainability.