The Maldives National Association of Construction Industry (MNACI) and the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI) have commended the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for its proactive measures in response to a surge in coral bleaching in the Maldives.
EPA recently announced a temporary halt on permits for developmental projects that may impact the reefs directly or indirectly. These projects include land reclamation, reef excavation, sand disposal on beaches, and other initiatives involving machinery near the reefs.
Moreover, both MNACI and MATI praised EPA's decision, emphasising its importance in promoting sustainable environmental management and reef preservation. They further urged their members to comply with EPA's directives.
The Maldives has been experiencing persistent coral bleaching, exacerbated by rising sea levels, with notable instances dating back to 1998. EPA observed an increase in coral bleaching cases in recent years, attributing it partly to human activities that disrupt reef conditions.
Furthermore, EPA warns that extensive land reclamation and beach nourishment activities could further delay reef regeneration. Currently, Maldives is at "Alert level one" for coral bleaching, with reports coming in from various areas.
To protect the reefs, EPA underscores the need for measures to mitigate rapid climate change. Preserving the reefs is crucial not only for environmental sustainability but also for the Maldives' key industries, such as tourism and fisheries, which rely on the health of marine ecosystems.