Male’ Maldives, 19th December 2023 – Advancing toward environmental stewardship, the Ministry of Climate Change, Environment, and Energy and CROSSROADS Maldives formed a collaborative alliance by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on December 11, 2023. This partnership centers on crucial facets such as enhancing awareness, exchanging knowledge, building capacity, and reinforcing the acknowledgment of Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECMs) in accordance with OECM guidelines.
Under this united banner, they launched the “Marine Discovery” initiative, a pilot program designed to heighten awareness about coral restoration and the abundant biodiversity in the Maldives. Deputy Minister Hassaan Mohamed underscored the pivotal role of awareness in safeguarding the Maldives’ biodiversity, emphasizing that understanding ecosystems’ fragility empowers individuals to make informed decisions and take responsible actions, fostering a culture of environmental stewardship.
Central to this program is the dissemination of information. The inaugural session saw the participation of 20 students who visited the Maldives Discovery Centre and Marine Discovery Centre at CROSSROADS Maldives. These students were immersed in insights regarding coral restoration, biodiversity, and the cultural significance of the Maldives, marking the beginning of an ongoing initiative focused on awareness, capacity building, and knowledge sharing. Future programs are slated to encompass diverse demographics, recognizing the community’s perception of their environment as instrumental in shaping their interactions with it.
The MoU underscores a joint dedication to safeguarding and conserving the country’s natural environment. Mr. Michael Marshall, CEO of S Hotels and Resorts by Singha Estate, emphasized that sustainable practices are not only ingrained in their ethos but also integral to their operations. The signing of the MoU reaffirms their commitment to supporting the Ministry’s vision through collaboration and alignment.
The partnership with CROSSROADS Maldives signifies a significant leap toward providing comprehensive information and addressing capacity gaps. The guiding principle of CROSSROADS’ mission, “building big, protecting the small,” remains at the forefront of their pursuit of sustainability in the Maldives. This collaboration strives to preserve a delicate equilibrium between the natural surroundings and the vibrant experiences offered by CROSSROADS. It showcases a commendable commitment to marine conservation and environmental responsibility.
