Mermaid Merle Liivand Conducts World's First Live Underwater Interview

Estonian-born Merle Liivand, who now calls Miami Beach her home, is known as Mermaid Merle because of her passion for protecting our oceans while swimming incredible distances in a monofin “mermaid’s tail”.

Beyond being a 5-time Guinness World Record Holder for various swimming accomplishments and her work as an ambassador for the Paris Olympics, Earth Day and several other environmental organizations, Mermaid Merle just made history again by conducting the world’s first live underwater interview with Palau’s President Surangel Whipps Jr..

Wearing scuba gear and special mask, she spoke beneath the Pacific Ocean with Palau’s President in a live broadcast to raise awareness about ocean conservation and climate threats facing Palau, a Pacific island nation of about 18,000 people. Rising sea levels, coral bleaching, and stronger storms are endangering its coasts.

Mermaid Merle collaborated with social entrepreneur Gunter Pauli to showcase the Li-Fi Communication Mask, a brand-new technology which uses light pulses to allow for wireless speech communication. It works where Wi-Fi does not.

Gunter Pauli runs a group called The Blue Economy (theblueeconomy.org). The blue economy refers to the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs while preserving the health of ocean ecosystems. It encompasses both traditional maritime activities like fisheries and shipping, and newer sectors such as marine renewable energy, aquaculture, and biotechnology, all within a framework that protects the environment and conserves natural resources. The concept emphasizes balancing economic development, social equity, and environmental sustainability.

Mermaid Merle boasts that Miami could be best city in the world for the Blue Economy. “With the cooperation of our government and local businesses, I see a bright future of relying on our waters and technology to generate revenue, while also being kind to our Earth.” County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava has strongly supported Mermaid Merle’s efforts for several years now and applauds this Blue Economy initiative.

On November 18, Mermaid Merle received the 3rd Class Cross of Merit of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in NYC at the Estonia House. It was in recognition for her fruitful activities in promoting Estonian interests and raising awareness of ocean pollution and promoting environmental awareness. She is the Estonian government’s 1st female athlete to receive the award.