Maldives Initiates Tech4Nature to Protect Whale Sharks

In a collaborative effort, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the Maldivian Ministry of Tourism and Environment, and Huawei have introduced the Tech4Nature project. This initiative aims to enhance the management of the South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA) through advanced monitoring technology. The primary goal is to protect the whale shark population while supporting tourism-related socioeconomic activities.

SAMPA, noted for its whale shark gatherings, attracts numerous visitors yearly, creating logistical challenges for monitoring. Tech4Nature equips rangers with digital tools to facilitate patrols and enhance species interaction tracking. This approach aligns with the IUCN Green List standards, improving conservation efforts and supporting local livelihoods reliant on a healthy marine ecosystem.

This initiative is part of a global Tech4Nature strategy, demonstrating that technology can drive effective conservation. With support from Huawei's TECH4ALL program, the project balances tourism and conservation by bolstering visitor management and compliance.