As Caron Rohsler prepares to conclude her term as the first British High Commissioner to the Maldives, she leaves behind a heartfelt message to the people she has grown to deeply care for. Having spent over five years here, Rohsler arrived in 2019 and has since built a strong bond with the islands and its people. Now, as her time in the Maldives comes to an end, Rohsler shares her thoughts on the importance of protecting the environment and preserving the natural beauty of this remarkable nation.

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“I feel a great love for this country as a result of the welcome that I’ve received,” says Rohsler, expressing the deep connection she’s formed with the Maldives. This love is evident in her message, one that goes beyond simply advising. It is a heartfelt plea for everyone to appreciate the fragile environment around them.

A Call to Care for the Environment

One of the main points of Rohsler’s message is the importance of safeguarding the environment. She emphasizes how unique the Maldives truly is, not just for the people who live here, but for the visitors who travel from all corners of the world to experience it. “People come from all over the world just to see it and experience it,” she says, acknowledging the pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life that draw visitors from every corner of the globe.

However, Rohsler also highlights how easy it can be to take this beauty for granted, noting how fragile the environment truly is. “Sometimes, I think in the Maldives, you don’t realize just how amazing it is and how fragile it is,” she cautions. Her message serves as a powerful reminder to cherish and protect these natural treasures, ensuring they remain as awe-inspiring for years to come.

Small Actions for a Big Impact

For Rohsler, protecting the environment doesn’t require grand gestures, but rather small, everyday actions. “Make positive choices about what you consume,” she advises, encouraging the Maldivian people to be more thoughtful about their consumption habits. She emphasizes reducing waste, particularly by avoiding products with non-biodegradable packaging, and making better choices every day. Rohsler’s message is clear: taking care of the environment is an ongoing, collective effort that starts with small, personal decisions.

As part of her commitment to environmental stewardship, Rohsler planted a coconut tree during her farewell. “Planting a tree is an act of hope,” she shares, symbolizing her belief in a brighter, more sustainable future. The tree, initially planted at the British High Commissioner’s residence, was later replanted in Hulhumale’ Central Park as a final tribute to her time in the Maldives. A living symbol of her enduring connection to the islands and her hope for a greener tomorrow.

Protecting Marine Life

Another key part of Rosler’s message focuses on the protection of the Maldives extraordinary marine life. As an island nation surrounded by rich oceans, the Maldives is home to endangered species like turtles, which attract visitors from all over the world. Rohsler makes a direct plea to the people of the Maldives: “Please don’t eat turtles,” she says. “They are magnificent creatures, they are rare, they are endangered.“

She points out that these creatures, along with sharks and other marine life, are part of what makes the Maldives such a popular destination for tourists. “People flock here to see both turtles and sharks,” she explains, highlighting how vital these animals are not only to the ecosystem but also to the economy of the islands.

A Legacy of Hope

As Rohsler bids farewell to the Maldives, her parting words carry a hopeful and loving message. “Please look after it because we all want to come back and see it,” she concludes. Her message calls for all of us to take responsibility for preserving the incredible environment of the Maldives.

Rohsler’s time in the Maldives may be coming to an end, but her message will undoubtedly continue to inspire those who hear it to take action, ensuring that the Maldives remains a pristine paradise for years to come.

This article is based on the Exclusive Interview with British High Commissioner Caron Rohsler by the English Edition of SukunPlay.

Feature image via gov.uk.