LocationsIt's #BiodiversityDay 2026
May 22, 2026
Acting Locally for Global Impact
Across the Maldives, local communities are leading efforts to protect biodiversity, restore ecosystems, and preserve traditional knowledge for future generations. Through the GEF Small Grants Programme implemented by UNDP and partners, communities are driving innovative solutions that demonstrate how local action can create global environmental impact.
FUVAHMULAH CORAL GARDENS
In Fuvahmulah, community-led coral gardening is restoring more than 5km of degraded reef habitat to strengthen marine biodiversity and coastal resilience. Healthier coral ecosystems are helping reduce coastal erosion, improve marine habitats, and create safer recreational areas for the island community. With an estimated 10,000 residents and visitors benefiting from stronger natural coastal protection, the project highlights how local reef restoration can generate lasting environmental and social impact.
Led by: Fuvahmulah Surfing Association (FSA)
Read more: Fuvahmulak Surfing Association Facebook Page
Photo: Ashwa Faheem / UNDP Maldives
SEA TURTLE BEACH GUARDIANS, L. GAADHOO
At one of the Maldives’ most important sea turtle nesting beaches, community-led conservation efforts are reversing years of illegal poaching and habitat decline. Through the Sea Turtle Beach Guardian Programme, regular beach monitoring, nest protection, and community engagement are helping safeguard endangered sea turtles in L. Gaadhoo. The initiative also introduced the Maldives’ first Sea Turtle Ranger programme, strengthening local stewardship and reviving community custodianship practices.
Led by: Olive Ridley Project (ORP)
Read more: Olive Ridley Project Facebook Page
Photo: Olive Ridley Project
WONDER WOMEN & THE WONDER PALM, ADDU
An all-women NGO in Addu Atoll is restoring declining coconut palm populations while reviving the traditional art of authentic Addu Bondi production. By cultivating hundreds of coconut saplings, the initiative is protecting local biodiversity, strengthening climate resilience, and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for women. The project also preserves cultural heritage by reviving traditional toddy tapping and indigenous food production practices for future generations.
Led by: Meedhoo Ekuveringe Cheynu
Read more: The Wonder Women and their Wonder Palm
Photo: Yujuan Jing / UNDP Maldives
TRACKING THE KURANGI, HAA ALIF
In the northern Maldives, a community-led conservation initiative is using satellite technology to track the migratory routes of the protected Lesser Noddy seabird for the first time in the country. One tagged bird travelled 2,400km from the Maldives to Seychelles in just eight days, contributing critical data to global migratory bird research. By protecting local seabird habitats and roosting sites, the project is helping strengthen conservation efforts that extend far beyond national borders.
Led by: FC Frigator
Read more: The Flight of the Sea Birds
Photo: Hassan Saajin
SAVING MASHI KULHI, KULHUDHUFFUSHI
In Kulhudhuffushi, a youth-led initiative is helping restore and protect the Maldives’ largest clay mangrove ecosystem. Through eco-friendly public infrastructure and conservation efforts, the project is strengthening biodiversity, promoting sustainable ecotourism, and safeguarding a critical blue carbon ecosystem for future generations. Implemented in partnership with the Kulhudhuffushi City Council, the initiative is also helping reconnect communities with one of the Maldives’ most important natural wetlands.
Led by: ZigZag for Youth Linkages, in partnership with Kulhudhuffushi City Council
Read more: https://edition.mv/news/44179?ref=cat-sub
Photo courtesy: Mihaaru
