Maldives – an archipelago in the Indian Ocean, being extremely vulnerable to the global climate change issues, takes Sustainable Tourism very seriously. Being one of the flattest countries in the world, climate change can be fatal for the island nation. As a result, all stakeholders within the Tourism industry of the Maldives, takes sustainable tourism as an extremely critical element for their long-term survival and business sustenance
A centuries-old practice called the pole-and-line fishing has shown the path to all Maldivians, on how to sustain their country ecologically and ensure that the next generation enjoys this beautiful paradise as is!It is believed by many that this unique technique of fishing originated in the Maldives itself and has been passed down through generations for centuries! Pole-and-line fishing helps eliminate bycatch –where unwanted species of fish are caught accidentally, which is a big issue with any other fishing methods in the world. Without the use of nets, the number of ghost gear is also minimal in the ocean and this is a major blessing for the entire country’s water surroundings & environment!
Many international tourism organizations like LTU, Condor, Thomas Cook, TUI, Kuoni along with Government organizations like UNEP, the Maldives Government, makes a concerted & consistent effort in helping the local community with new & sustainable ways & means to eradicate waste, create new coral gardens, introduce sustainable water processing plants, train locals for use of grey water for their irrigation & plants as well as maximize usage of solar power, across the country
As a responsible traveller to this island paradise, you too can certainly make a positive impact by participating in sustainable practices during your vacation. With the rising sea levels and acute coral bleaching in certain areas of the Maldives, it is of paramount importance that every person visiting the Maldives, should contribute in whatever possible, to make the Maldives environment friendly & sustainable.
Some of the practices that certainly help the environment protection process are as follows:
Use environment friendly sunscreen:Basking in the blissful sun in the Maldives is a favourite hobby for every traveler to the Maldives. And sunscreen should be an integral part of your travel kit to the Maldives, to ensure that you are protected from harmful UV rays. However, it is important to bring along sunscreens that are reef-safe and use natural ingredients like Zinc Oxide and titanium dioxide. This will go a long way in avoiding any contamination of the Maldivian waters and can especially help the coral reefs from bleaching. Many sunscreen products use chemicals that can be harmful to the coral reefs.
Avoiding harming the coral gardens whilst snorkelling or diving: Every traveller to the Maldives would love to snorkel amongst the mesmeric coral gardens that you see all over. Maldives is home to an abundance of varied marine life; colourful & live coral reefs and it is important to keep in mind that the discerning snorkeller makes all efforts to ensure they are totally buoyant and do not walk or trudge on the extremely sensitive & vulnerable corals or do anything that will alarm the beautiful marine life that is around these coral gardens. Maintaining good buoyancy control is pivotal to ensuring that the fragile ecosystems are not affected in anyway. Similarly, while diving, it is of paramount importance to adhere to the specific instructions given by the dive leader on the dos and don’ts whilst diving. It is everyone’s primary responsibility to preserve nature as is!
Help protect the Marine life: Most of the resorts in the Maldives have active ecotourism programs which allows the tourist to learn more about the conservation efforts as well as contribute proactively to these initiatives to sustain & protect the environment. Choose to stay at eco-friendly resorts who have specific activities and give importance to protection of sea turtles, coral replanting, beach cleaning, under-water garbage cleaning etc.
Support Local & International NGOs with their Environment protection efforts: Local and international NGOs working in the Maldives, for the protection and conservation of marine animals, have clear guidelinesthat are formalized by the Government of Maldives, on how to encounter, support Turtles, Whale Sharks and Manta Rays responsibly. You can also consider supporting these initiatives by volunteering or via donations.
Travel Escapes Maldives has a variety of Luxury resorts options within the Luxury segment that focus unconditionally on environment protection and support eco-friendly practices. The team will be delighted to create customised itineraries as per your specific requirement. For further details, please visit www.travelescapesmaldives.com .
Welcome to the MAGIC of the Maldives – SLOMO indeed; Thrilling when you want it, serenity at its best, when you need it! So, plan your next summer holidays to the Maldives and come experience the true heaven on earth, through Travel Escapes Maldives.