CROSSROADS Maldives marine 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) by the Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy.

Located within Emboodhoo Lagoon in South Malé Atoll, the designated area is the largest recognised OECM in the Maldives and supports the conservation of marine and coastal ecosystems surrounding CROSSROADS Maldives.

The conservation area forms an ecological corridor adjacent to SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton, Hard Rock Hotel Maldives and SO/ Maldives.

OECMs are areas outside traditional protected zones that are managed to achieve long-term conservation of biodiversity. The CROSSROADS area is managed through collaboration with government agencies, private-sector organisations, local communities and other stakeholders.

Surveys within the area have recorded more than 37 coral genera and 177 reef fish species. The site also provides nursery and feeding grounds for 24 species listed on the IUCN Red List, including hawksbill turtles, ornate eagle rays, bowmouth guitarfish, giant guitarfish and scalloped hammerhead sharks.

The area also protects a migration route used by spinner and bottlenose dolphins. CROSSROADS Maldives uses drone surveillance, underwater cameras and GPS monitoring as part of its conservation management programme.

The designation is also expected to support the protection of dive sites including Emboodhoo Canyon and create opportunities for Maldivian students and researchers to participate in marine conservation activities.