With the noble objective of transforming the Jaffna Peninsula into a green and climate-resilient city capable of facing climate change challenges, a special initiative titled “Green Jaffna” has been proposed by the Impact team. A special discussion regarding the implementation of its pilot phase was held this morning – on Tuesday 03 March 2026, at the Governor’s Secretariat under the chairmanship of the Hon. Governor of the Northern Province, N. Vethanayahan.
During the discussion, the Impact team provided the Governor with a comprehensive briefing on the project. It was highlighted that this initiative is not merely a tree-planting campaign but has been designed as a comprehensive “climate resilience movement.”
As the initial phase of the project, key activities will include the planting of 1,000 trees, the establishment of an urban mini-forest, greening the premises of schools and government and private institutions, maintaining urban cleanliness, and setting up 2 to 3 organic compost units.
In the present context, tree planting and reforestation have become a “climate necessity.” Through this project, several benefits are anticipated, including reducing land surface temperatures, increasing groundwater levels, preventing soil erosion, enhancing biodiversity, and improving public health.
A primary target of the project is to ensure that at least 80 percent of the planted trees are maintained and survive. To achieve this, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), monthly monitoring, and quarterly reporting mechanisms will be utilized. Furthermore, to ensure the sustainability of the initiative, long-term strategies such as a tree adoption program, the establishment of volunteer networks and Memoranda of Understanding with institutions have been incorporated.
Following the presentation, an in-depth discussion was held on the potential challenges that may arise during implementation. It was emphasized that the contribution of multiple stakeholders is essential for the successful execution of the project. Accordingly, it was decided to organize a special meeting with all relevant stakeholders to review and finalize the locations selected for the pilot phase. Discussions were also held on how this project could be aligned and integrated with the “Clean Sri Lanka” program currently being implemented by the government.
The special discussion was attended by the Secretary to the Governor of the Northern Province, the Hon. Deputy Mayor of the Jaffna Municipal Council, the Municipal Commissioner and Engineer of the Jaffna Municipal Council, the Dean of the Faculty of Medicine – University of Jaffna, officials from the Central Environmental Authority, officials from the Ceylon Electricity Board, and representatives of the Impact team.
