NEW CORAL HABITATS EMERGE OFF PORT CITY COLOMBO: ‘MIRACLE OF CORAL’ PICTURE BOOK LAUNCHED TO SUPPORT ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION IN SRI LANKA

A new science picture book documenting the unexpected emergence of coral habitats along the Port City Colombo breakwater has been officially launched, marking a significant step in strengthening environmental education and bilateral cooperation between Sri Lanka and China.

The publication, ‘Miracle of Coral’, presents findings from ongoing ecological monitoring around Port City Colombo, where marine experts have observed vibrant coral growth and the return of diverse marine species. To date, 75 coral species and 140 fish species have been identified, highlighting a level of biodiversity that has exceeded initial expectations. Designed for primary and secondary school students, the book aims to enhance environmental literacy and inspire interest in marine conservation across the country.

The launch event, held at the Port City Colombo Sales Gallery, brought together senior representatives from the Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education, the National Library of Sri Lanka, the Chinese Embassy in Sri Lanka, China Communications Construction Company (CCCC), China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) and CHEC Port City Colombo (Pvt) Ltd. Their presence underscored the importance of promoting environmental awareness among youth and integrating sustainability-focused content into Sri Lanka’s education sector.

Developed under CCCC guidance, Miracle of Coral combines detailed illustrations with accessible scientific explanations, documenting the formation of new coral colonies and ecological regeneration along the breakwater—an area previously considered unlikely to support such biodiversity. Marine experts involved in the project believe these findings will contribute meaningfully to national discussions on coastal conservation and rehabilitation.

The ceremony was graced by Dr. Madhura Senevirathne, Deputy Minister of Education and Higher Education; Ms. Ji Lili, Cultural Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in Sri Lanka; Mr. Zha Changmiao, Director of the Brand and Culture Department of CCCC Group, and Mr. W Sunil, General Manager of the National Library of Sri Lanka, alongside other dignitaries. A special video message from Mr. Liu Xiang, Employee Director of CCCC Group, added further significance to the occasion.

During the ceremony, the first copies of the picture book—accompanied by educational materials—were presented to representatives of Lumbini College, Asoka Vidyalaya, Colombo, and Presbyterian Girls’ School, Dehiwala, symbolising the book’s contribution to strengthening environmental education at the school level.

With this launch, Port City Colombo continues to reinforce its role as a centre for environmental innovation, scientific collaboration, and educational advancement—supporting Sri Lanka’s long-term development priorities while promoting greater understanding of the country’s evolving coastal ecosystems.

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ABOUT PORT CITY COLOMBO 

Poised to redefine Sri Lanka’s economic and societal landscape, Port City Colombo is a visionary multi-billion-dollar FDI-funded project located at the very heart of the South Asian region — the vibrant, thriving metropolis of Colombo in Sri Lanka. Positioned as the gateway to South Asia, it offers a unique combination of global investment opportunities, international business environments, world-class infrastructure, and sustainable yet cosmopolitan living. As a Special Economic Zone (SEZ), Port City Colombo will offer a business-friendly environment including tax incentives and exemptions for Businesses of Strategic Importance (BSIs), and transactions in foreign currencies, with no capital or exchange controls, and up to 100 percent foreign ownership. With upcoming developments projected to break ground in 2025, Port City Colombo aims to emulate the successful economic models of Dubai or Singapore, whilst reinforcing the broader commitment to sustainability and liveability.