CROSSROADS Maldives reef area receives official OECM conservation status

A 1.71-square-kilometre marine area within CROSSROADS Maldives has been officially recognised as an Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measure (OECM), strengthening conservation protection around the Emboodhoo Lagoon in South Malé Atoll.

The designation was presented by Minister of Climate Change, Environment and Energy Ali Shareef at a ceremony held at CROSSROADS Maldives. The designated area is currently the largest recognised OECM in the Maldives.

OECMs are areas outside formally protected zones that are managed to deliver long-term conservation of biodiversity. The Ministry formally designated the CROSSROADS area on 12 October.

The conservation area forms an ecological corridor alongside SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton, Hard Rock Hotel Maldives and SO/ Maldives. CROSSROADS said surveys within the area have recorded more than 37 coral genera and 177 reef fish species, as well as 24 species listed on the IUCN Red List.

Species recorded in the area include hawksbill turtles, ornate eagle rays, bowmouth guitarfish, giant guitarfish and scalloped hammerhead sharks. The area also serves as a migration route for spinner and bottlenose dolphins.

CROSSROADS uses drone surveillance, underwater cameras and GPS monitoring as part of the management of the conservation area, alongside measures aimed at balancing conservation, recreation and sustainable use.

The designation also highlights the role tourism developments can play in managing marine ecosystems alongside commercial tourism activity in the Maldives.