Ecotourism in Maldives
Some promotion of ecotourism is practiced in the Maldives, with resorts emphasizing recycling of heat that is wasted in producing electricity and stricter policies of waste disposal.[6] Furthermore, the government aims to conserve the natural beauty of the islands before they are being altered into resorts by enforcing laws such as prohibition of catching turtles and reduction in the damages caused to the coral reefs.
Nevertheless, the Maldives have frequently come under criticism for their lack of protection of the local shark populations, which have sharply decreased after being hunted extensively for decades. In some areas of the island, sharks have entirely disappeared. Sharks are hunted primarily for their fins. Shark fins are exported from the Maldives to other countries in Asia, where they are regarded as a delicacy. The fins are amputated from the live animals, which are then thrown back alive into the sea.
Although laws exist that prohibit this practice in the Maldives, these laws are not respected or enforced by the local authorities.
In 2001, a local environmental organization called Seamark/Marine savers (known onsite as Reefs capers), has set up an ambitious program of replantation of coral in damaged areas, on the basis of resort sponsorship.[8] Many thousands of tourist-sponsored "coral frames" have been transplanted with success in many resort reefs like Kuda Huraa and Landaa Giraavaru, and are under close survey by marine scientists; they constitute a refuge for thousands of tropical species, and participate in the preservation and recovery of these fragile ecosystems.
In every 1 January, the islanders of Ukulhas will gather to hold a competition. The council will divide the islanders into six teams, with the goal of cleaning the island. The council - the heads of the island - will provide bags, gloves, water, food and other necessities for this activity. The team that finishes cleaning their assigned area first, wins the competition. After the cleanup, a party with barbecue and boduberu (traditional maldivian music and dance) will be held.