Mauritius, a picturesque island nation in the Indian Ocean, is renowned for its vibrant biodiversity, turquoise lagoon and thriving tourism industry. However, beneath its natural beauty lies an urgent reality: climate change poses a significant threat to the environment, economy, and people of Mauritius. The island is grappling with rising sea levels, extreme weather events and the degradation of vital ecosystems. Addressing these challenges requires a united effort from individuals, communities and the global community. Dr Anusha Nawoor, Tunley’s Environmental Scientist and Mauritian native, gives a detailed insight on the impact of climate change in Mauritius and how it affects the economy.
The island's unique ecosystem faces threats such as coastal erosion, severe weather events and coral reef degradation. Understanding these threats is crucial to developing strategies for a resilient and sustainable future:
Mauritius is particularly vulnerable to rising sea levels, which are causing intensified coastal erosion. Beaches, wetlands and mangroves are under threat, endangering marine habitats and undermining the island’s tourism sector which is a cornerstone of its economy.
While the weather in Mauritius is famed for its warmth and sunny beaches, it is also increasingly marked by unpredictable patterns and extreme events due to climate change. Tropical cyclones are becoming more frequent and severe, causing widespread destruction to buildings and agriculture. In addition, erratic rainfall patterns bring prolonged droughts that strain water resources, while intense downpours lead to flash floods, soil erosion and infrastructure damage.
Mauritius is surrounded by approximately 300km of coral reefs which play a significant role in marine ecosystems and coastal protection. Sadly, these reefs are bleaching due to rising sea temperatures and ocean acidification. Coral bleaching happens when corals experience stress from environmental changes, such as rising sea temperatures, increased ocean acidification or exposure to pollutants. This degradation directly impacts the Mauritian economy as it threatens fisheries and the livelihoods of communities that rely on marine resources.
Read More: Coral Bleaching In Mauritius | Tunley Environmental
Mauritius is home to unique flora and fauna, much of it endemic. However, climate change disrupts ecosystems and habitats, pushing many species toward extinction and upsetting the island’s ecological balance.
Mauritius’ agricultural sector, particularly sugarcane and vegetable farming, is highly sensitive to climate variability. Droughts reduce crop yields, while floods destroy fields, jeopardising food security and farmers’ livelihoods.
Tourism in Mauritius, which accounts for a significant portion of its GDP, is at risk. Climate-induced erosion, coral bleaching and extreme weather events reduce the island’s appeal as a destination for global travellers.
Erratic rainfall patterns challenge water management. Droughts reduce reservoir levels, while excessive rainfall overwhelms drainage systems, straining freshwater supplies and increasing the risk of flooding.
Mauritius is taking bold steps to address these challenges through mitigation and adaptation strategies:
While climate change presents serious challenges, it also opens avenues for progress and adaptation:
Every individual living and visiting the Island can do their part in helping to combat climate change in Mauritius. Here are some simple steps one can take:
Urgent and collaborative action is needed to protect the environment, economy and people from the devastating effects of climate change in Mauritius. By embracing innovation, investing in climate resilience and fostering community involvement, the Island can chart a path toward a sustainable and thriving future. The road ahead is challenging, but with concerted efforts, Mauritius can preserve its paradise and ensure it remains a beacon of natural beauty and biodiversity for generations to come.