Maldives Launches Tech4Nature Project to Protect Iconic Whale Sharks

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), together with the Ministry of Tourism and the Environment of the Maldives and Huawei, has embarked on an innovative initiative aimed at modernizing the management of the South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA). This new project, named Tech4Nature, focuses on the conservation of the emblematic whale shark population while addressing the socio-economic pressures inherent in this world-class tourist destination. By utilizing essential monitoring technologies and real-time communication tools, the initiative enhances the effectiveness of marine conservation efforts in the region.

As the largest marine protected area in the Maldives, SAMPA is globally recognized for its year-round congregation of whale sharks (Rhinocodon typus), attracting thousands of visitors annually. However, the vast expanse of this protected region and its multiple access points present considerable logistical challenges for traditional monitoring methods. The Tech4Nature initiative seeks to address these challenges by equipping park managers with a suite of digital devices for observation and reporting.

Enhanced Data Collection and Collaboration

These tools not only empower more efficient patrolling but also facilitate the monitoring of interactions between tourism activities and marine species. The project establishes a reliable, data-driven framework that supports SAMPA's efforts to achieve compliance with the IUCN Green List, ensuring that conservation actions are quantifiable and transparent, while also bolstering the livelihoods dependent on the health of the marine ecosystem.

The Tech4Nature initiative in the Maldives adds to a broader partnership that was originally launched in 2020 by IUCN and Huawei under the TECH4ALL digital inclusion program. This project exemplifies how technology can contribute to effective and equitable conservation efforts aligned with IUCN’s standards for protected areas.

Launched in a high-profile ceremony during the Maldives Protected Areas Forum 2026, the SAMPA project marks the first Tech4Nature initiative in the Maldives. It is part of a global effort jointly developed by IUCN and Huawei to expand the use of digital solutions in conservation practices. The primary objective of SAMPA is to strengthen the balance between tourism and nature conservation by improving visitor management, enhancing regulatory compliance, and supporting science-based decision-making.

Throughout the duration of the project, a specialized team of SAMPA park managers will be equipped with essential monitoring and communication tools, allowing them to effectively respond to unsafe and non-compliant activities. This proactive approach enhances visitor safety and mitigates harmful interactions with whale sharks. Improved monitoring efforts will also elevate compliance with regulations related to protected areas, promoting sustainable tourism practices that align with SAMPA’s conservation management goals.

A Step Towards Sustainable Conservation

Dr. Dindo Campilan, regional director of IUCN for Asia, emphasized the importance of equipping park managers with fundamental monitoring tools for ongoing field assessments. This initiative lays a critical foundation for improved management and governance of ecosystems. He stated, "This pragmatic first step addresses immediate operational deficits in applying IUCN’s Green List standards, ensuring that SAMPA preserves its unique biodiversity and the local livelihoods that depend on it."

In conjunction with the project's implementation, training for SAMPA park managers on the standards of the IUCN Green List will be supported, creating a globally recognized framework for effectively managed and equitable protected areas. A baseline assessment within SAMPA according to the Green List will provide a structured overview for identifying strengths, weaknesses, and priority actions for improved management.

Collective Commitment to Nature Conservation

Thoriq Ibrahim, the Minister of Tourism and Environment, reaffirmed the government's commitment to supporting nature conservation by strengthening institutional and governance mechanisms for management of protected areas. He highlighted the necessity for collective action in achieving this objective with a shared vision and responsibility.

Zhang Jinze, CEO of Huawei Sri Lanka, reflected on the success of Tech4Nature projects since 2020, noting that innovative technological solutions can enhance understanding and mitigate threats to biodiversity and ecosystems, including marine environments. He pointed out that local partnership engagement plays a crucial role in ensuring the sustainability of solutions within the global Tech4Nature partnership, addressing a wide variety of conservation challenges from coral reef monitoring to wildlife protection and ecosystem restoration.

The initiative has thus far supported 11 major and affiliated projects across various countries, providing customized digital solutions tackling a range of conservation issues. Huawei, a leading global ICT infrastructure and smart device provider, remains committed to integrating digital technology into everyday life, facilitating a fully connected and intelligent world.

Conclusion

In summary, the Tech4Nature project in the Maldives serves as a pivotal model for combining cutting-edge technology with sustainable conservation practices, promoting the protection of vital marine ecosystems. This initiative not only aims to secure the future of the whale sharks but also enhances the overall resilience and sustainability of the Maldivian marine habitat, reaffirming the country's dedication to preserving its unique biodiversity for generations to come.