Thoriq urges action on climate risks to tourism sector

Minister of Tourism and Environment Thoriq Ibrahim on Tuesday said measures must be identified and implemented to address the impact of climate change on the tourism sector.

Speaking at a press briefing at the President’s Office, the minister outlined ongoing work by the ministry on climate-related issues. Responding to a question on efforts to protect the tourism industry from environmental changes, he said climate change is affecting coral reefs and marine ecosystems.

He said the focus should be on identifying practical measures to limit the impact. “For instance, this year is an El Niño year. We must determine what interventions can be made to reduce coral bleaching when sea temperatures rise during such periods,” he said.

The minister also noted the importance of sharing information with island communities.

Thoriq had earlier stated during a ministerial meeting held on the sidelines of COP29 in 2024 that climate change is affecting the Maldives’ tourism sector. At the meeting, he reiterated the Maldives’ approach to develop tourism in line with climate considerations.

Amid rising temperatures and the risk of coral bleaching in reefs, non-governmental organisations on Monday called for a temporary halt to government-led land reclamation projects and similar activities that may add pressure on the marine environment.