Overview 

At the forefront 

As an archipelago of low-lying coral atolls, the Maldives is among the most vulnerable countries to climate change and global warming. The land estimation of the island nation is less than 1% and 99% sea; with 80% of the islands just 1 meter above sea level. Imminent challenges such as rising sea levels, irregular rainfall and temperature, and extreme events will exacerbate issues such as:  

• Coastal erosion which adds pressure on scarce land resources 

• Physical vulnerability of island population infrastructure and livelihood assets 

UNDP Maldives aims to:  

• Reduce carbon footprint 

• Prevent disaster risk  

• Initiate climate adaptation and mitigation informed development planning 

• Enhance sustainable management of water and natural resources 

• Introduce civic engagement for climate action 

In Depth 

Maldives is among the most vulnerable nations to climate change, compounded by its hydro-meteorological nature. Thus, environmental sustainability, disaster risk management and climate change adaptation are vital for the future. Climate change risks and long term resilience need to be integrated into the island land use planning, coastal development, and protection policies and practice.  

Plan of Action  

UNDP aims to support the Maldives to adapt to climate change and build resilience to disaster risk through mechanisms such as:  

• Establishing sustainable financing in order to protect natural resources 

• Designing renewable energy infrastructure 

• Introducing multi-sector engagement to reduce carbon footprint  

• Investing in MSMEs and greener business models 

• Organising guidance and technical support for natural disasters and health emergencies  

• Advocating educating on energy and climate 

Under this programme UNDP aims to initiate these goals as a plan of action to secure our future through sustainable measures. It is important to understand that most of these tasks coincide with each other, and each success contributes to the next.