Minister of Climate Change, Environment and Energy Thoriq Ibrahim has reiterated the commitment to temporarily suspend ongoing developmental projects, if issues on coral bleaching emerge under any circumstances. The minister's remarks were in line with the cautions issued by the respective authorities to halt certain developmental initiatives, highlighting the concerns associated with coral bleaching.
Speaking on a programme aired on PSM News, Minister Thoriq stressed that coral bleaching is a common global issue. The minister disclosed that the first cases of coral bleaching were observed in the Maldives in 1997, noting that most coral reefs survived regardless of the numerous corals whitened. He further revealed that the latest cases of coral bleaching occurred in 2016, with approximately 73% of reefs encountered the environmental crisis. However, the minister assured that the majority of the damaged coral reefs have been restored over the past few years.
Underscoring that prolonged periods of warm and tranquil weather inevitably result in coral bleaching, Minister Thoriq highlighted the forecasts of scientists, which anticipates the phenomenon occurring in the Maldives. The minister stated that agreements have been made with respective contractors to stall developmental projects that may impact the reefs directly or indirectly. He additionally unveiled that the agreements were signed by the companies, prior to the granting of permit to contractors. . The agreement outlines the terms of halting developmental initiatives for a month following the peak season of coral bleaching.
Furthermore, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) cautions 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.
Aiming to protect the reefs, EPA stresses the significance for the implementation of 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.