Sri Lanka Legislates Development of Landscape Architecture

Limestone shoals above sea level between India and the island may be remnants of a natural causeway breached by a violent storm in 1480. A ferry crosses this gap today.

On May 7, 2009, the Sri Lanka Parliament approved a bill to establish the Sri Lanka Institute of Landscape Architects to develop the profession of landscape architecture in Sri Lanka to internationally accepted standards.
The bill was presented by Dinesh Gunawardana, the minister for urban development.

Mr. Gunawardana said landscape architecture is a vital area in the move to sustainable development, conserving and improving the environment.

The functions of the institute, reports the Daily News of Sri Lanka will be to promote and advance the study, practice, application and research of landscape architecture, its related subjects and the arts and sciences connected.

The institute also aims to promote establish and maintain close relations with the profession worldwide, including the international exchange of knowledge, skills and experience in both educational and professional spheres.