The beautiful archipelago of the Maldives is a paradise on earth. The tropical sun shines on the palm-fringed beaches all year long while the crystalline blue ocean laps up against the charming coastline. The country is visited by thousands of tourists to soak up the endless sunrays; however, unfortunately, the Maldives is faced with an existential crisis. Global warming caused by carbon emission, which results in rising sea levels threatens to sink the country into the bottom of the ocean.
The ocean, the country’s lifeline
The country is nurtured by the Indian Ocean; the sea is what attracts travelers to the country, which has provided the country with a thriving tourism industry, supported by the likes OZEN Life Maadhoo. The accommodation sector thrives on the tourists’ desire to dive and snorkel and witness the country’s enchanting marine life – a Maldives all inclusive package is more likely to include water excursions as its added benefits than anything else. Even this is the case, the very thing that protects and nurtures the grounds of the Maldives is what poses a threat to the country’s existence.
How long will the Maldives stay afloat?
As the lowest-lying nation in the world, the Maldives is more vulnerable to the rising sea levels than any other country; it is predicted that the country will be completely immersed in water by 2100 – if nothing is done to mitigate climate change.
Is the Maldives already affected by the rising sea levels?
Yes, some islanders are already dealing with the problems caused by rising sea levels. Erosion is one problem people have to deal with, and storms are another. Also, some islanders claim that the wells fill up with seawater.
Protecting marine ecosystems
The main attraction of the Maldives is its coral reefs. They are a magnet for divers and snorkellers visiting the Maldives. The reefs protect the marine species, provide them with food, and they also protect the islands during storms. Reefs are an essential part of the Maldives ecosystem, and they are being destroyed by the rising sea temperatures. To mitigate the damage, the government, in collaboration with the World Bank, has implemented several conservation projects.
Can a circular economy help?
Yes, it certainly can. A circular economy is all about reducing, reusing, and recycling. Resorts are actively engaged in this economic model, and they contribute by encouraging their guests to reduce waste; most resorts are now recycling everything they can.
