The newly launched documentary – Connecting Rainforests, Communities and livelihoods , shines a light on the remarkable journey of the Endane Biodiversity Corridor – a once-abandoned tea garden that has been transformed into a thriving 3 km-long biodiversity corridor, reconnecting two fragmented forests- Iharankanda and Walankanda.
Started in 2018, the project focuses on restoring rare and threatened tree species, and has already led to the discovery of a new Memecylon plant species within the regenerated landscape. Beyond conservation, the initiative has brought meaningful change to the surrounding village and estate community, offering a model of forest restoration that the world can learn from. Created in collaboration with the Franklinia Foundation, Dilmah Tea, Kahawatte Plantations, and Rajarata University, the documentary captures this inspiring blend of nature, science, and community in action.
It’s not just about planting trees. It’s about reconnecting ecosystems and empowering the people who live within them.
A Story Told Through Real Voices
The documentary captures the heart of this journey — from scientists mapping ecological needs, to local families caring for their surroundings, to the quiet beauty of an environment slowly returning to life.
The documentary premiered at Genesis by Dilmah in Maligawatte, under the theme “Connecting Rainforest Communities and Livelihoods.”
The evening brought together conservationists, academics, policymakers, private-sector leaders, and nature enthusiasts for an honest, warm conversation about the future of Sri Lanka’s forests — and the people who depend on them.
Key speakers reminded us:
“When forests connect, life thrives. When people connect with nature, sustainability begins.”
Professor Ranasinghe highlighted the importance of biodiversity corridors as natural links that reconnect fragmented rainforests. These corridors help restore ecological balance, allow wildlife to move freely, and support the wellbeing of nearby communities.
“It’s not just about planting trees. It’s about reconnecting lives; people, animals, and ecosystems,” she said, stressing that restoration must create real, lasting benefits for the local communities who protect these landscapes.
She also commended ongoing community-led efforts, where degraded lands are being brought back to life and local residents are trained and empowered to steward their environment.
“We are long on thought, short on time, and short on impact,” Dr. Dilhan C. Fernando reminded us, a powerful call to stop talking about change and start making it happen.
He spoke about how deeply Sri Lanka’s natural beauty is woven into who we are and what we create. Without our forests, mountains, and people, even the things we cherish most from the charm of the Nine Arches Bridge to the flavour of Ceylon Tea, would lose their magic. He reminded us that real value isn’t just financial; it’s the life, culture, and nature that hold our world together.
Nature is not optional, it’s essential
And the documentary became the perfect closing note, showing what collaboration can achieve when science, community, and purpose come together.
Looking Ahead
The Endane Biodiversity Corridor is still growing, and so is the community around it. This documentary marks just one chapter in a much bigger story – a story of resilience, restoration, and hope.
