In Maldives, fears of the climate crisis have finally begun to materialize with the country having to worry about the dangerous rise in sea levels. While many still refuse to recognize the dangers of climate crisis or even acknowledge its existing reality, Maldives has begun to prepare for the wrath of this environmental predicament.
The country known for its magnificent beaches and tourism value has been under environmental threat for a while now. Climate crisis is no longer a concern for the future since the consequences in real time have begun. Forest fires, changes in weather and climate, unpredictable natural disasters have become common globally.
Maldives’ Head of State, Muizzu’s Proposal
The country’s president, Mohamed Muizzu, spoke about plans for land reclamation and construction of elevated lands as means to combat the ocean encroachment problem. He believes that he could protect the people, land and the country through his environmental policies that include fortressing the islands. He has totalled the costs to reach around 500M$ for the entire project.
However, some environmental groups have a differing opinion regarding his policies. Concerns have been raised regarding increased flooding and destruction of coral reef and oceanic biodiversity that could accompany these policies that respond with hostility towards nature. The Intergovernmental Panel of Climate Change has even predicted a loss of 70% to 90% coral reefs by 2050 at the rate at which temperatures are rising and ice caps melting.
The island of Hulhumale is already a reclaimed one and is about 6.5 ft above sea level. This might become a potential future relocation site if the situation ever gets worse. The people of the country call it the “city of hope”.
For years and decades, climate activists have tried to spread awareness of the effects of the climate crisis and the fact of its present consequences. Yet, the ignorance of the matter can hardly be accepted any longer since Maldives might be the first to experience a total flooding. The fears of creating environmental refugees is persistent and frightening.
Future of Maldives
The Maldives Floating City initiative characterizes itself as the pioneering venture in a new era, marking the return of Maldivians to aquatic habitats through environmentally friendly floating endeavors. A short distance from Male, construction and assembly will commence on the world’s inaugural fully functional floating city. This innovative solution eliminates concerns about rising sea levels, as the city will consistently remain atop the surface of the sea.
Previously, it was understood that relocation of people and settlements was the only option but now with technology that attempts to suppress nature’s response there is a legitimate threat of exacerbating the situation with new developments. It is important to strike a balance between the use of technology, development of policies for combating the environmental crisis and active participation in international efforts, while also recognizing the importance of community engagement and local adaptation strategies.
