Maldives today has become one of the most sought after holiday destinations for people from all around the world. The little island nation has gained a worldwide reputation wholly due to its tourist attractions that attract visitors to the sun, the sea and the white sands of the land.

However, the Maldivian President Mr. Mohamed Nasheed, along with other scientists has pointed out that the global climate change will have a major effect on the environment. He holds the view that the Maldives faces the greatest challenge of all due to the rapid changes in climate. Since its highest point is 2.4 meters above sea level, the whole country of Maldives can be submerged under water within 100 years, if man-made climate change continues. It is for this reason that Nasheed publicly promised that he would bring about major changes in the country. He announced that the country would lead the way by turning carbon neutral in ten years.

Since this announcement was made, Maldives has signed an agreement to pioneer carbon capture technology by trapping carbon dioxide in burned coconuts. Unfortunately however, the whole scheme does not seem feasible owing to the fact that Maldives is completely dependant upon tourism for its economy.

Though Maldives can come up with resorts that run on solar energy but they cannot use green aircrafts to ply visitors from the mainland. This means that flights to the Maldives from all around the world will keep pouring in and so will carbon dioxide.

Restricting flights to Maldives would mean that tourism in the country would come to a complete standstill. The Maldives’ aim to achieve a carbon neutral status without affecting tourism is indeed a tough job in hand.