Rekawa turns turtle conservation into a 30-year community business model
By Ifham Nizam What started 30 years ago as an effort to protect sea turtles has evolved into a community-based economic model that has generated livelihoods, attracted tourists and transformed Rekawa into one of Sri Lanka’s best-known nature tourism destinations. The Rekawa Turtle Conservation Project, launched on September 2, 1996, by the Turtle Conservation Project […]
In 1996, the Rekawa Turtle Conservation Project was established, marking the beginning of a 30-year partnership between the Turtle Conservation Project, the Department of Wildlife Conservation, and the Rekawa community. This collaboration aimed to protect sea turtles and transform Rekawa into a renowned nature tourism destination.
Today, the project provides livelihoods for 28 individuals, but its economic impact extends much further. The chairman of the project, Thushan Kapurusinghe, highlighted how the village's transformation over the past three decades is closely tied to the turtle conservation program. Tourists visit Rekawa not only for its beaches but to witness sea turtles nesting in their natural habitat—a unique experience dependent on the protection of the nesting beach.
Tour operators frequently bring visitors to Rekawa, attracting those who have already seen major attractions like the Kandy Esala Perahera. This model demonstrates the shift in conservation thinking, where biodiversity is recognized as an economic asset when managed properly. The 30th anniversary celebration honored those who contributed over the years and recognized the project's international recognition, including the Green Employment Award and a 'Tourism for Tomorrow' award.
Written by urgent.news from The Island Sri Lanka's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
