The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has stated that businesses that store, treat, and recycle metal materials such as aluminum and alloys in Male’ will need to obtain approval.
In a press release, EPA stated that residents have expressed concern over the health risks involved in warehouses and workshops that handle metal being located in residential areas. EPA stated that businesses need to seek approval prior to storing, treating, or recycling any type of waste material and that not obtaining approval is a punishable offense under the Waste Management Act.
Additionally, EPA highlighted that handling metal materials without safety precautions harms nearby residents and the public in general. As such, the agency stated that businesses need to obtain approval within 30 days to ensure their work fits health and safety standards. It added that the support of all relevant stakeholders is needed for initiatives to improve public health.