High-Level Meeting Held to Draft Policy on Environmental Sustainability and Food Security

A high-level meeting has been convened to draft a policy aimed at strengthening environmental sustainability and food security in the Maldives.

The meeting was organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare, World Agroforestry, and the International Center for Forestry Research, with discussions focused on the National Policy on Agroforestry and Trees Outside Forests 2026.

The proposed policy seeks to establish an economically viable and ecologically beneficial system by restoring vegetation across agricultural lands and residential areas. It takes into account the Maldives’ unique environmental conditions and soil limitations, while emphasising the protection of mangroves and shoreline vegetation and the promotion of climate-resilient agricultural practices.

The framework highlights the role of agroforestry in mitigating the impacts of climate change and enhancing national food security. It outlines objectives such as strengthening agricultural associations, introducing incentives for tree planting, and utilising scientific research to revive and protect native plant species.

The policy aims to transform agriculture into a climate-adapted and sustainable livelihood, with the potential to improve environmental protection, increase agricultural productivity, and contribute to broader economic growth.

Representatives from the ministries responsible for agriculture, tourism and environment, along with local island councils and international agroforestry experts, took part in the discussions. Once finalised, the policy is expected to play a key role in protecting the Maldives’ fragile ecosystems while supporting long-term food security and economic resilience.