Torlen: Difference between revisions

The primary natural hazards of concern to Torlen are [[Levantine hurricane]]s and tropical storms. Given its location in the western [[Levantine Ocean]] and low-lying topography, the island is susceptible to storm surge, high winds, and heavy rainfall associated with these meteorological events. Additionally, the porous limestone terrain exacerbates flooding due to its limited capacity for water absorption. The National Hurricane Center of Burgundie is located on Torlen and served as a vital information and warning hub for the whole of the [[Levantine Hurricane]] hazard area. While less frequent, earthquakes and tsunamis also pose potential risks due to Torlen's proximity to tectonic plate boundaries.

 

There has also been, since [[2011]], an increase in {{wp|Sargassum#%22Coastal_inundations%22_by_washed-ashore_Sargassum|sargassum coastal inundations}} which prove devastating to the local communities, their economies, and also to the [[Navy of Burgundie]], the [[Revenue Guard]], anf the [[Merchant Marine of Burgundie]]. Since [[2015]], the island has received grants, specifically through the [[Navy of Burgundie]] and Emergency Management, to buy and maintain a fleet of 3 retrofitted tugboats to capture and deflect large masses of sargassum headed towards the island.

*Megakies, resort town on the eastern coast

*Naouliada, resort town on the eastern coast

*Pyrint, resort town on the eastern coast

5.6% of the land in Torlen, around 3045 hectares, is cultivated for agricultural and herding purposes. Citrus (grapefruit and orange) exports are the main agricultural export of Torlen. Other than citrus, notable agricultural subsectors include bananas, mangos, vegetables (mostly tomatoes, avocadoes, and onion), and poultry.  

 

{{wp|Seaweed farming}} is the largest agricultural industry in Torlen, with much of the harvested {{wp|kelp}} being used for fertilizer. There are 6 large-scale commercial kelp farms that are primarily focused on the export market. The primary species cultivated are {{wp|Eucheuma cottonii}} (a red seaweed valued for {{wp|carrageenan}} production), {{wp|Kappaphycus alvarezii}} (another red seaweed with carrageenan applications), and {{wp|Sargassum fluitans}} (a brown seaweed used for biofuel and fertilizer). Additionally, various kelp species, including {{wp|Laminaria digitata}} and {{wp|Saccharina latissima}}, are farmed for their {{wp|alginates}}, utilized in food, pharmaceuticals, and textiles.

 

Annual seaweed and kelp harvests on Torlen average approximately 500,000 metric tons, generating an estimated revenue of $100 million. This industry directly employs over 5,000 individuals. Ancillary industries like seaweed processing, equipment manufacturing, and logistics provide additional 1,500 jobs, bolstering the sector's overall economic impact. The government of Torlen actively supports seaweed farming through [[Science and Technology in Burgundie|research initiatives]], and infrastructure development, recognizing its potential for economic growth and environmental benefits such as carbon sequestration and nutrient absorption.

Shark and swordfishing, spelunking, cave-diving, and the beaches are a large draw for tourists. The hospitality business in Torlen is mostly geared toward mid-life, middle class couples on holiday without their children and has invested heavily in boutique hotels with a strong concierge economy. Large portions of the eastern side of the island have been turned into a tourist trap over the last 80 years, with excursions, charters, marinas, and hospitality becoming the primary income of those communities. Megakies, Naouliada, and Annapolis are particularly well known for their {{wp|List_of_summer_colonies|vacation colonies}}.The [[List_of_companies_by_industry_in_Burgundie#Service|Rouselle-Cartier Hospitality]] [https://www.ritzcarltonyachtcollection.com| yacht collection] is based out of Torlen, the chain also maintains two resort hotels on the island.