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Through its Proudly Committed sustainability strategy, RIU Hotels has partnered with the Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme (MWSRP) to protect the world’s largest fish. This collaboration, known as Connecting Constellations, combines long-term scientific research, advanced technology, and community education programs to ensure the conservation of the whale shark in the Maldivian atolls.
A project born from a love for the ocean
The MWSRP was founded in 2006 with the goal of closing the knowledge gap regarding whale sharks in Maldivian waters. Although the species has been legally protected since 1995, this program is the only long-term research project studying their habits and movements to make informed conservation decisions.
At RIU, we have joined this cause because we understand that you cannot conserve what you do not understand. This alliance seeks to generate a real positive impact on marine biodiversity and the local communities that depend on the health of the ocean.
Education to transform the relationship with the sea
One of the fundamental pillars we support from RIU is the educational program “Moodhu Kudhin” (Children of the Sea). This project moves marine science from textbooks to direct practice on beaches and reefs.
Impact of the educational program
- Early training: Children learn about the marine ecosystem through snorkeling and exploration.
- Scientific curiosity: It sparks a passion for research in younger generations.
- Sustainable future: Many participants go on to become certified snorkel guides or ocean advocates in their communities.
Many of these children go on to become snorkelling guides, marine scientists or simply ocean advocates within their communities. They are all examples of how education and passion can build a sustainable future.
Connecting Constellations: a project with a future
The Connecting Constellations project is named after the unique spot patterns on each whale shark, which function like a fingerprint or their own “constellation.” To monitor them, the team uses cutting-edge tools for non-invasive surveillance.
Summary Data Table: Project Tools and Objectives
| Tool / Action | Project Purpose | Expected Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Drones and Software | Identification of individuals by their spot patterns. | Accurate census of the local population. |
| Maritime Surveillance | Monitoring vessel traffic. | Reduction of collisions with sharks. |
| Local Interviews | Gathering traditional knowledge. | Integration of the community in conservation. |
| Southern Expansion | Expanding the study to more atolls. | Protection of new critical habitats. |
RIU’s global commitment to biodiversity.
This collaboration in the Maldives is another piece of the puzzle in our Proudly Committed strategy. At RIU, we work to have a flagship conservation project in every destination where we operate.
- Mexico: Conservation of the jaguar and the military macaw.
- Cape Verde and Aruba: Protection of sea turtles.
- Jamaica: Supporting communities during Labour Day.
Want to experience paradise up close? Discover our hotels in the Maldives and enjoy a unique natural environment responsibly.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about whale shark protection in the Maldives
1. What is the MWSRP? It is the Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme, a scientific organization dedicated to the study and conservation of whale sharks in the Maldives since 2006.
2. What is the “Connecting Constellations” project? It is a joint initiative between RIU and MWSRP that brings together science, education, and social commitment to protect whale shark habitats.
3. How is each whale shark identified? Each individual has a unique pattern of spots on its skin. Using recognition software and photos, scientists can identify and track each individual.
4. What is the “Moodhu Kudhin” program? It means “Children of the Sea” and is an educational program that teaches local Maldivian children how to dive and care for the marine ecosystem.
5. Why is it important to protect the whale shark? It is the world’s largest fish and a vulnerable species. Its presence is a key indicator of the health of the oceans and coral reefs.
6. How does technology contribute to this project? Drones are used for aerial observation, and specialized identification software monitors the animals without interfering with their natural behavior.
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