An environmental expert from the United Nations (UN) Human Rights Council's Special Procedures Group David Boyd has concluded a 10-day visit to the Maldives aimed at assessing efforts to foster a clean, safe, and sustainable environment. Throughout his stay, he scrutinised the nation's endeavors to tackle environmental challenges, including the provision of clean drinking water in a sustainable manner.
Speaking to media post-observation, Boyd underscored the status of the Maldives as one of the most environmentally vulnerable nations, citing concerns such as sea level rise, coral bleaching, island erosion, and susceptibility to monsoon storms. He advocated for urgent action, proposing measures like phasing out diesel usage, promoting electric vehicles, conducting eco-friendly land reclamation, and expediting the enactment and enforcement of environmental legislation.
Additionally, Boyd stressed the importance of aligning with UN goals, urging the Maldives to strive for 30% environmental protection of land and sea by 2030. He recommended transitioning waste management to an extended producer responsibility system and emphasised the swift passage of pending environmental bills in Parliament.
Furthermore, Boyd pledged to deliver a comprehensive report to the government outlining strategies to address identified environmental issues. During his visit, he engaged with government officials, civil society organisations, and environmental activists.
The Special Procedures branch of the UN Human Rights Council comprises volunteer experts tasked with monitoring country-specific and thematic human rights issues. These experts, appointed by the UN Human Rights Council, carry out mandates to investigate and advise on various human rights concerns worldwide.