Noo Raajje Releases Short Film That Celebrates Blue Economy Tradition In The Maldives

Noo Raajje has recently released a short documentary film that features Maldivian leaders in various sectors that are working towards the common goal of ensuring a more sustainable future for the oceans. Titled “Our Ocean: Basis for Blue Economy”, the film brought together a diverse group of stakeholders from different backgrounds such as fisheries, tourism, marine protection, renewable energy, innovation and communication who are rallying behind a united cause that ensures a thriving future for the Maldives while prioritizing marine protection, food security, sustainable tourism and climate change resilience.

The film takes a closer look at the significance of the Blue Economy and showcases the irrevocable link and interdependence that exists between sectors such as fisheries and tourism and the oceans. Viewers will also be able to educate themselves on innovative technologies that the Maldives is exploring to drive sustainable development and climate change resilience in the country. By merging traditional best practices with new technologies, the Maldives has the potential of establishing the world's first ‘Smart Ocean State’ in the country.

Blue Economy refers to the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, etc. A broad umbrella term, Blue Economy encompasses and overlaps with many sectors such as fisheries, marine transport, waste management and climate change mitigation and adaptation. ‘Our Ocean’ honours Maldives’ effort towards building such an economy through its strides in promoting sustainable fisheries, tourism and establishing marine protected areas. Two of the former entailing sectors are co-dependent on healthy ocean reserves for their long-lived survival.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kGyI8wYTq4E

Speaking about the documentary film, Noo Raajje Site Manager, Fathimath Nistharan remarked “We cannot understate the importance of resilient and healthy oceans in developing our Blue Economy. In one way or another, almost all Maldivian livelihoods are connected to the oceans and will be severely affected if our ocean health deteriorates. Our future prosperity depends on marine protection and innovation.”

Ahmed Ameez, Noo Raajje Engagement Officer shares that Blue Economy is not a new concept in the Maldives, “When you hear the words Blue Economy you might think it’s very complicated. The way I see it, we practice Blue Economy already. Our fisheries are sustainable, and divers on this reef are earning an income as visitors come to experience a healthy ecosystem. Blue Economy is already in our culture.”

The documentary film premiered at the Coral Festival 2023 held in Hithadhoo, Addu during the last weekend. Over the coming weeks, the film will be screened by local media and can be viewed across all Noo Raajje channels and at https://www.nooraajje.org/.