Assessment of Agroecological Zone-Based Management Strategies for Sustainable Development in Sri Lanka

Agroecological Zoning (AEZ) serves as a crucial framework for sustainable agricultural planning and resource management, integrating biophysical attributes and socio-economic factors. This paper explores the historical evolution and current state of AEZ in Sri Lanka, focusing on its application in addressing modern challenges such as climate change, crop suitability, and disaster management. The study evaluates the limitations of the existing zoning framework, emphasizing the need to incorporate advanced geospatial technologies, dynamic climatic data, and comprehensive water balance metrics. Recommendations include enhancing zoning criteria with projected climate scenarios and integrating traditional irrigation systems for resilience. By aligning Sri Lanka’s AEZ practices with global standards, this study aims to ensure adaptive and sustainable agricultural systems that support food security and ecological preservation.