Gov’t to Launch Reforestation Campaign for World Environment Day

Government officials have unveiled plans to kickstart a sizable reforestation effort in honour of World Environment Day, with the goal of planting five million trees across the Maldives.

Minister of Climate Change, Environment, and Energy, Thoriq Ibrahim, detailed the initiative in an interview with PSM News, indicating that the project, championed by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, will commence on June’s World Environment Day. 

advertisement

The endeavour will see a diverse array of tree species, including endangered varieties, fruit-bearing trees, shade providers, and those with medicinal properties, planted across residential islands and resorts.

Acknowledging past reforestation endeavours’ sustainability challenges, Minister Thoriq underscored the importance of long-term maintenance. To bolster sustainability, plans include introducing over 90 tree species in subsequent phases and establishing nurseries on islands for public access. Minister Thoriq called upon local councils, businesses, and private organisations to actively participate in the initiative.

President Dr. Muizzu’s pledge to plant five million trees over the next five years, announced during the United Nations Climate Change Conference COP28, reflects the government’s steadfast commitment to environmental preservation. 

Furthermore, neighbouring nations have pledged their support by contributing trees to bolster the Maldives’ ambitious reforestation programme.