In order to restore one of nature’s most valuable ecosystems, Diamonds Thudufushi Beach and Water Villas and Mars, Incorporated started a daring initiative in October 2024 called the Big Build Maldives. Over 1,000 reef stars holding 15,000 corals were planted on the island’s reef during the week-long endeavor. A strong collaboration of marine experts, visionary leaders, and a horde of passionate local and international volunteers propelled the project. Following a record-breaking year of ocean warming, the committed team completed one of the greatest restoration initiatives to date with the goal of assisting coral reefs in their recovery and adaptation.
When Diamonds Thudufushi teamed up with Mars Inc. in 2023, they used their ground-breaking Mars Assisted Reef Restoration System (MARRS) to start the voyage. Coral pieces can grow and flourish on deteriorated reefs thanks to the system’s hexagonal metal frames, or “reef stars.” The ambitious plan to add an extra 1,000 reef stars to the restoration site was sparked by the remarkable outcomes of the initial experiments with 203 reef stars on Thudufushi’s reef.
The Maldives, renowned for their vibrant coral gardens that are teeming with marine life, are currently dealing with a significant problem. The thriving undersea paradise is in danger of disappearing due to climate change, including rising sea temperatures and other human disruptions. The region has had numerous instances of coral bleaching in recent decades, which serves as a sobering reminder of how vulnerable these important ecosystems are. Scientists caution that if nothing is done now, 90% of the world’s coral reefs may disappear by 2050. The project’s significance and unity were emphasized on the last day by the attendance of Mr. Salah Shihab, Managing Director of Voyages Maldives and Seagull Group, and Ms. Sara Rosso, President of Planhotel.
“It was an incredibly fulfilling task, and I learned so much about corals while getting to know other people,” shared one traveler talking about Big Build Maldives, demonstrating the exceptional chance for tourists to contribute to a long-lasting environmental legacy.
Large-scale coral restoration not only offers the chance to experience and participate in a greater purpose during such trying times, but it also creates hope that nature can rebound with a little help. Since our choices now will influence the destiny of coral reefs tomorrow, everyone can contribute in some small way to the protection of these essential habitats.
