Human–Environment Interaction

Title : Dividing the Elements

By: D.M.P.T.DISSANAYAKA

SLTC

This photograph captures the heart of Polonnaruwa’s 'Dry Zone' landscape. What looks like a simple scenic road is actually a tank bund—a massive man-made embankment built by our ancestors to trap monsoon rains.

​To the right is the reservoir, an essential water source where we swim and gather. To the left are the lush paddy fields that this water sustains. This road is the physical line where human engineering and nature meet. It shows how we in Polonnaruwa still rely on these ancient irrigation systems for our agriculture, our livelihoods, and our daily social life. 

Title : Arid Resilience

By: W.M.Malshan Fernando

University of Colombo 

This image, taken in the relentless heat in Tharmakundu, Jaffna, speaks of the intense interaction between the arid Northern landscape and human determination. Under the blistering sun, amidst iconic Palmyra palms, this woman walks barefoot along the dusty track carrying her simple flour bag. Direct contact with the burning earth speaks of the struggles of local communities in their daily battles against environmental extremes. Beyond the beauty, this photograph speaks of the quiet determination of people whose lives are dictated by the rhythm of this unforgiving land, but whose spirit remains unbroken.

Title : Earth's Pulse and Alluvial Life

By: W.W.S.H.Fernando 

University of Colombo 

This image shows a mining site in Pelmadulla, Ratnapura. The main human-environmental interaction here is the modification of the natural landscape using modern technology such as backhoes for economic reasons. The hydrological cycle is directly affected by soil exploitation, the conversion of farmland into deep pits, and the use of water pumps to control groundwater levels.

As a future impact, the risk of landslides during heavy rains due to vertical cutting of the soil increases. Biodiversity is destroyed by removing topsoil, and the continued withdrawal of groundwater can dry up wells in the surrounding area. Improperly filling the mines leads to mosquito breeding and accidents. Therefore, sustainable mining management is essential to maintain ecological balance.

Title : The Covenant Between Man and Nature -  මිනිසා සහ ස්වභාවය අත්‍ර සම්මුතිය 

By: P.M.D.K.S.Perera

University of Ruhuna

Title : Silent Impact With Nature

By: U.G.L.M.Ariyarathna

Sabaragamuwa University Of Sri Lanaka 

The coastal area is an important natural system with biodiversity. This coastal system is important for human livelihoods, human life, and the protection of the environment. The garbage seen here is left behind by humans. This has adverse effects on marine life and the environment. Although this photo is not visible to humans, it shows the impact their actions have on the environment. The photo sends a powerful message that reminds us of our responsibility to protect the environment.

Title : Sacred Harmony

By: W.R.R.M.K.W.D.T.Pothuwila 

University of Peradeniya 

This photograph was taken at Ruwanweli Maha Seya in Anuradhapura. It shows the sacred stupa as a shared space where humans and nature coexist. The presence of birds within this environment reflects how wildlife adapts to human modified landscapes. The stupa combined with natural elements, highlights the interaction between human practices and the environment. Overall, this image illustrate the bond between humans and nature showing how build space can also support ecological presence and harmony.