The Maldives is a predominantly marine country formed by 26 natural atolls. Its ecosystems support fisheries, tourism, coastal protection and biodiversity, while settlements depend on infrastructure and services that differ between islands. Nature covers ecosystems and wildlife; surroundings cover everyday public spaces, utilities, waste, water, sewerage, air, noise, green areas and coastal safety. These areas overlap where development affects reefs, beaches, lagoons or wetlands. Environmental management involves Island Councils and City Councils for many local matters, together with national authorities responsible for regulation, environmental compliance and disaster preparedness. Protected areas, fishing, research, construction and wildlife encounters can involve separate rules or permits. Sea-level rise, erosion, warming seas, ocean acidification, coral bleaching and storms create risks for ecosystems and coastal communities. Conditions in Malé and other cities, inhabited islands, economic or industrial areas and resort locations can differ substantially because of island isolation, local systems, available services, costs and response times.
Environment in Maldives
The environment in the Maldives includes both natural systems and the surroundings where people live, work and travel. Nature is shaped by coral reefs, lagoons, beaches, seagrass meadows, mangroves and wetlands across more than 1,100 low-lying coral islands. Environmental conditions, services and applicable rules vary by island, zone, activity and provider.
Tip
Treat the specific island, zone, activity and service provider as the starting point for any environmental decision in the Maldives. Use the local council for local surroundings and services, and confirm national requirements when an activity affects nature, protected areas, construction, research, fishing, wildlife or disaster preparedness.