Sand Extraction Watch: A new UNEP report warns that nearly 50 billion tonnes of sand are pulled from nature each year, with demand for construction set to surge—threatening rivers, coasts, and livelihoods. Skills for Tourism: Marriott Maldives graduated 40 apprentices from its 2026 cohort across front office, housekeeping, food & beverage, culinary, and electrical maintenance—boosting local career pathways with MIT and the youth ministry. Green Funding Boost: President Muizzu announced an extra $454,000 USD annually from the Maldives Green Fund (plus MVR 7 million noted in separate coverage) for protected areas, wildlife, environmental research, public awareness, and capacity building. Climate Stress on Mangroves: A modeling study says rising seas could push mangroves past their limits, shrinking habitat and potentially turning some forests from carbon sinks into carbon sources. STEM Spotlight: Maldivian students swept top prizes in a global Young Mathematical Story Authors contest, showing how creative math learning is paying off. Digital Safety Policy: The Maldives plans to ban children under 16 from certain social media platforms to reduce cyberbullying and grooming risks, with consultations and a rollout targeted within a year. Hybrid Work Tech: ZILLIONe (Jabra’s authorized partner for Sri Lanka and the Maldives) unveiled new Jabra Evolve3 and PanaCast collaboration solutions for smarter meetings.