Paradise Lost – Climate Change and the Maldives

As well as being synonymous with white sandy beaches, sparkling, crystal clear lagoons and the honeymoon set, the Maldives is increasingly receiving international attention and headlines from an environmental perspective, as rising seas caused by climate change threaten to engulf the low-lying archipelago within this century. 

Rarely being more than six feet above sea level, the coral based islands are protected by atoll reefs.  However, they are all susceptible to erosion, flooding and extreme weather.  Indeed, the Maldives was one of the worst casualties of the 2004 Tsunami. If, as some scientists predict, the sea level continues to rise as a result of global warming, then Maldives, with its ancient and unique culture, may all be swept away within fifty years.

As a precautionary step the government has built a breakwater on Male’s southern reef and the islands have started to enjoy more protection from natural calamities than they have ever done before.  However, for those wanting to experience a glimpse of this idyllic paradise whilst they still can, there is no time like the present!

No related posts.