Three Decades of Climate Change Research in Sri Lanka: A Scientometric Analysis (1996–2026)

This study employs a scientometric approach to analyze climate change research in Sri Lanka, covering the period from 1996 to August 2026 with 812 records examined. It highlights significant growth in publications, peaking at 109 in 2024, and notes a transition from rapid growth to a more mature field as indicated by declining relative growth rates. Key metrics such as author productivity and institutional contributions were assessed, with findings indicating that Rathnayake U was the most prolific author and that institutions such as CGIAR and the University of Peradeniya led. The study also identifies 387 publication sources, with a notable core group of 34. A skewed author productivity pattern was identified through Lotka’s Law, indicating that approximately 82.02% of authors published only once. Leading institutions included CGIAR, the University of Peradeniya, and the International Water Management Institute. This research establishes a baseline to address gaps and guide future climate research policies in Sri Lanka.