Minister of Environment, Climate Change and Technology Aminath Shauna has stated the Maldives has taken strong steps to address emerging issues linked to environmental degradation. She made the statement in a tweet posted following the inauguration of the Green Smart Island Project.
In her tweet, Minister Shauna stated the theme for this year’s World Health Day touches the most important issues of our times, noting environmental conservation, energy transition and the efforts to combat climate change are most closely linked to safeguarding public health. The minister said the Maldives has taken strong steps to address emerging issues in public health linked to environmental degradation, including banning the import of the most widely used single use plastics. She noted a production and usage ban will come into effect in June this year.
The environment minister further highlighted one of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih’s most important pledges is to ensure provision of clean drinking water and safe sanitation in the islands. She noted this is on track and the contract has been signed for all the remaining islands without water and sewerage systems.
Further, Minister Shauna stated the Maldives is rapidly decarbonising the economy, noting the transition to clean air and sunshine will help to achieve better air quality in the islands. She added the government has installed air quality monitoring systems in 7 areas in the Maldives, with more to be installed.
The environment minister further stated the lack of effective waste management infrastructure and processes continues to be a challenge. However, she noted putting an end to the toxic smoke from Thilafushi is a big win for public health.
Noting conservation contributes to the health and well being of the public, Minister Shauna stated over the years the Maldives has protected 79 areas, with management plans developed for five of these areas. She added there is a lot more still to do and that it is encouraging to see more stakeholders understand the value of the country’s natural resources.