Premodern Eco-Consciousness: lessons from ancient civilization of Anuradhapura Kingdom in SriLanka

Author : Dilakshi De Silva

Abstract :This study examines the Anuradhapura Kingdom, which was the capital of Sri Lanka for more than 1,500 years and is a prime example of a sustainable model that demonstrates long-term ecological and socioeconomic resilience. The study intends to use knowledge of Anuradhapura's premodern Eco consciousness customs to inform current urban sustainability strategies in light of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the UN. In order to evaluate the sustainability principles ingrained in the kingdom's infrastructure and governance, the research is based on a multidisciplinary methodology that includes expert interviews, historical texts, and archaeological evidence. The core idea of Anuradhapura Kingdom was "reservoir and village." A cascade of connected reservoirs has been developed to supply water to the village level thanks in part to an advanced hydraulic system. This made farming and f ishing easier, ensuring everyone had access to necessary food. Every village kept a jungle for herbs and firewood. Anuradhapura Kingdom is sustainable as a result of the leadership's emphasis on maintaining the environment, building infrastructure for economic activity, and promoting the welfare of the populace. These methods can be used in the context of contemporary global sustainability development. According to the findings, establishing urban sustainability requires three crucial components: people, the economy, and nature. Planners, legislators, and urban developers are urged by this research to: Reevaluate high-tech solutions in favor of low tech, robust systems, empower communities to localize sustainability initiatives, construct infrastructure that resembles natural systems and integrate cultural and historical knowledge into contemporary frameworks for sustainability.

Keywords :Sustainability, eco-consciousness, premodern, cascade, Anuradhapura Kingdom.

Conference Name :International Conference on Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities (ICSSAH-25)

Conference Place London, UK

Conference Date 6th Oct 2025