Five-year roadmap for Maldives Ocean Accounts launched

The Ministry of Environment has launched a five-year roadmap for developing "Ocean Accounts" a framework to measure and manage marine and coastal ecosystems as part of national sustainable development planning.

The roadmap was unveiled by environment minister Thoriq Ibrahim at a side event hosted by the Maldives in partnership with the Global Ocean Accounts Partnership, on the sidelines of the third UN Ocean Conference in France.

According to the ministry, the roadmap is structured around three key objectives:

- Completion of the first phase of Ocean Accounts by 2025

- Development of pilot Ocean Accounts in selected regions and establishment of a national system by 2028

- Integration of Ocean Accounts data into all development policy areas by 2030

Minister Thoriq highlighted the Maldives’ dependence on marine and coastal biodiversity for development and social well-being, stressing the need to protect the country’s natural capital and ecosystems.

The ministry said that Ocean Accounts provide a framework for assessing the condition of marine ecosystems and their contribution to economic and social benefits, helping to inform sustainable development strategies.

The UN Ocean Conference, held every two years, brings together global leaders, scientists, and environmental advocates to address the sustainable use of ocean and marine resources.