The government aims to plant one million trees this year as part of its 5 million tree planting programme, Minister of Climate Change, Environment and Energy, Ali Shareef has said.
The minister made the announcement at a tree planting event held at Central Park, Hulhumale’, to mark World Environment Day.
The tree planting programme aims to restore endangered tree species, and increase greenery across the country.
According to Minister Ali Shareef, 1.6 million trees have already been planted under the programme, with plans to plant another one million trees during the current year.
Speaking at the event, Minister of Foreign Affairs Iruthisham Adam said environmental protection is a key pillar of the Maldives’ foreign policy. She stressed that the Maldives is already experiencing the effects of climate change and that sustainable environmental protection is of extreme importance to safeguard people’s lives, the economy, and culture.
The event also marked national milestones, including the 60th anniversary of Maldives independence and the 60th anniversary of the Maldives’ membership in the United Nations. Participants included government ministers, diplomatic representatives, officials from the Housing Development Corporation (HDC), and Foreign Ministry staff.
The event aimed to raise environmental awareness, encourage greener lifestyles, and highlight the Maldives’ role in the international community.