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Agreement on Coral reef Restoration Signed Between University of Milano-Bicocca and Maldives

coral reef restoration
An agreement on coral reef restoration has been signed between the University of Milano-Bicocca and the government of the Maldives.

The University of Milano-Bicocca and the government of the Republic of Maldives are now officially working together to develop a national protocol to coordinate the Maldivian coral restoration projects. This partnership will help achieve new important goals in the fields of sustainability and biodiversity.

During the ceremony that was live-streamed this morning from the Milan campus auditorium, the rector of the University, Giovanna Iannantuoni, and the Minister of Fisheries, Marine Resources and Agriculture of the Republic of Maldives, Zaha Waheed (via conference call) signed the agreement, officially setting in motion the project for the development of collaborative research.

The agreement that was signed today with the Maldives government represents a new step in the collaboration that has been going on for over 11 years with the goal of protecting the coral reef and reducing pollution in the seas. This partnership, which sees us engaged on crucial issues for the future of our planet, is a source of pride for the entire academic community.

Rector Giovanna Iannantuoni.

Coral reefs are among the most complex and biodiverse ecosystems on Earth, but they are threatened by the unsustainable management of the environment and its resources.

Thanks to the partnership stipulated today, all the techniques used for coral reef restoration will be analyzed, to identify the most effective ones to ensure the survival of these delicate organisms found in the Maldives, and to develop guidelines for their monitoring and application.

The agreement is part of a larger project. Since 2009 the University of Milano-Bicocca has been studying new solutions for the protection of corals and the marine environment. This is made possible thanks to the MaRHE research and higher education centre located on Magoodhoo island, in the Maldives, in collaboration with the government-affiliated Maldives Marine Research Institute, as well as with foreign universities and research centres.

These solutions include ecological coral restoration techniques based on the selection of “super corals” that are resistant to the effects of climate change, as well as the development of biocompatible and biodegradable mitigation methods for the healing of coral wounds, a solution that can extend the life of corals raised using restoration practices.

Image: Università degli Studi di Milano-Bicocca

During the ceremony, the initiative entitled “CorallaMib” was also presented. It is a call for ideas open to university and high school students. The project will follow two strands: participants who choose the scientific one will be able to test themselves by proposing solutions that can reduce the impact of anthropogenic factors on coral reefs; those who opt for the artistic-literary one will be able to present a work dedicated to the sea and environmental protection.

When the world health situation allows it, the winners of the competition will be able to go to the MaRHE center in the Maldives to study closely, together with the researchers from Milano-Bicocca, the biodiversity of this archipelago, its coral reef and the factors that are threatening its survival.

Considering the MaRHE Center’s multidisciplinary approach, the agreement that was signed today provides for the involvement of several University Departments: the Department of Materials Science with the optimization and testing of new biopolymers in the marine environment, the Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, with the analysis of physiological patterns in stressed marine animals, and the “R. Massa” Department of Human Sciences for Education for the “citizen science” elements applied to coral restoration, aimed at developing new channels of communication essential to raising awareness on the quality of the environment and on the importance of the oceans.

In order to develop new “coral restoration” techniques and to monitor coral health and reproduction in a controlled environment, the researchers of the Bicocca MaRHE center also collaborate with the Genoa Aquarium, with whom a partnership for joint research initiatives was signed in 2020.

Feature image by Università degli Studi di Milano-Bicocca

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Lily Beach Resort & Spa Nominated for Prestigious World Travel Awards 2025

Lily Beach Resort & Spa Nominated for Prestigious World Travel Awards 2025

Lily Beach Resort & Spa, located in the Maldives, proudly announces its nominations for three prestigious honors at the 2025 World Travel Awards. Specifically, the resort has earned recognition in the categories of Indian Ocean’s Leading Family Resort 2025, Maldives’ Leading All-Inclusive Resort 2025, and Maldives’ Leading Family Resort 2025. These nominations celebrate Lily Beach for its unwavering commitment to exceptional service, top-tier luxury, and family-friendly offerings, making it one of the top destinations in the Maldives.

The Platinum Plan: A Premier All-Inclusive Experience

One of the resort’s most notable features is its renowned Platinum Plan, which stands as one of the most comprehensive all-inclusive packages in the region. This plan offers a variety of premium dining options, top-shelf beverages, exciting excursions, and a wide range of water activities. As a result, guests can enjoy a carefree and indulgent experience, with the Platinum Plan providing both variety and value. Consequently, it sets a benchmark for luxury all-inclusive offerings in the Maldives.

Family-Friendly Accommodations and Activities

For families, Lily Beach provides the ideal getaway, offering a perfect balance of togetherness and privacy. The resort features spacious multi-bedroom accommodations, such as the Beach Residence and Beach Family Villa, which allow families to stay close while still enjoying personal space. Furthermore, the Turtles Kids’ Club provides a fun-filled environment with supervised activities, while adults can unwind in adults-only spaces, such as AQVA, the overwater bar and restaurant. In addition to this, the resort offers a gym and tennis court, giving guests plenty of opportunities to stay active and enjoy family-friendly recreation.

Exquisite Dining with a View

Dining at Lily Beach is also an experience in itself. Guests can indulge in everything from international buffet selections at Lily Maa to Asian fusion cuisine at the overwater Tamarind restaurant. Not only do the diverse dining options cater to a wide range of tastes, but the spectacular ocean views and the warm hospitality of the Maldivian staff also contribute to an unforgettable culinary journey.

Wellness and Relaxation at Tamara Spa

Moreover, for those seeking rest and rejuvenation, the Tamara Spa offers a peaceful sanctuary with a variety of healing treatments. Set over the water, the spa provides an ideal setting for guests to unwind with restorative massages. Additionally, Lily Beach’s Wellness Week with Ali Young, taking place this November, offers a unique opportunity for guests to engage in a transformative wellness retreat. This seven-day program blends ancient sound healing techniques with the Maldives’ tranquil environment, helping guests rejuvenate both body and mind.

A Commitment to Excellence and Luxury

These nominations reflect Lily Beach’s consistent dedication to excellence, further cementing its reputation as a premier destination for families, couples, and luxury travelers. Whether it’s indulgence, adventure, or relaxation, the resort offers something for everyone, and these nominations only highlight its exceptional offerings.

Voting for the 2025 World Travel Awards is now open, and Lily Beach Resort & Spa invites its guests and supporters to cast their votes and help secure these well-deserved accolades. Click here to vote

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