Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Technology and the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish an ambient air quality monitoring station and two air quality monitors in Hulhumale'.
The agreement was signed by Minister of Environment, Climate Change and Technology Aminath Shauna and Managing Director of HDC Ahmed Athif. At the ceremony, World Health Organisation (WHO) donated two ambient air quality monitoring stations. One of the stations will be placed at Hulhumale’ Central Park.
The ministry stated the MoU was a great step towards enhancing the air quality monitoring network in the Maldives and that the collected data will be released to the public. It further stated the monitoring stations will measure the harmful particles in the air in Hulhumale’ Phase I and II. The monitoring stations use the air quality index, which is recognised by the United States Environmental Protection Agency. The index consists of six categories related to the level of harm to public health.
Air quality monitoring stations have been established in various parts of the country, and the ministry has commenced a project to establish a station in Male’ City.