Evaluating Scientific Contribution of the Sri Lankan Scientists in the Field of Environmental Science Based on the Science Citation Index Expanded (SCIE)

Scientific research is an essential component in guiding improvements in environmental issues and development of new initiatives. It is important to identify solutions to the challenges faced by the Sri Lankan environmental system, in order to refine and tailor local environmental practices to suit national requirements. The main objective of this study to analyze the research performance of Sri Lankan scientists on environmental studies, in the national and global context, as reflected in its publication output during 2000-2011. The total scientific contribution of Sri Lanka is 4,360 records for twelve years (2000-2011) but the contribution of Sri Lankan scientist in the field of environmental science is 250 only. This includes all types of documents such as journal articles, conference proceedings, abstract etc. The highest number of publications (38) was produced in 2009.The average number of publications per year was 12 for of environmental sciences.The citation count has risen from 2 in 2000 to 650 in 2011, illustrates that the research work of Sri Lanka has received sustain attention. The article “A high- resolution data set of surface climate over global land areas” was published in CLIMATE RESEARCH in 2002. It has been cited 502 times, and ranks No.1 in terms of citations. The evaluation of scientific contribution of Sri Lankan scientists in the field of environmental studies since 2000-2011 has thrown some light on how the research has evolved. This study intends to highlight and acknowledge the history of research output. It includes quantum of literature, Citation, subject areas, institution, collaboration, Sources (Journal), highly cited articles, funding agencies etc. Research and Development activities primarily depend upon financial allocation. Therefore, funds raised from other national and global agencies, play an important role in aiding research and development