Minister of Environment, Climate Change and Technology Aminath Shauna has stated that banning the import and use of some types of plastic does not impede development. She made the remark at the function held to commemorate World Environment Day 2023 in Ukulhas, Alifu Alifu Atoll.
At the function, Minister Shauna highlighted that 13 types of single-use plastics have been banned as part of the government’s efforts to protect the environment and said that the decision has not detrimentally impacted any aspect of the lives of citizens or development initiatives. She said that the successful implementation has demonstrated the feasibility of adopting a plastic-free lifestyle for individuals. She added that the videos produced by school students for World Environment Day have shown the extent of the plastic problem in the Maldives and the need for a plastic-free approach.
At the World Environment Day function, certificates were awarded to individuals who participated in a canvas bag sewing training programme conducted by the Women’s Development Committee (WDC) and the environment ministry to facilitate the production of environmentally friendly products under a special brand of Ukulhas. Around 500 canvas bags made during the training programme were handed over to the island council to be distributed to the households in Ukulhas.
An agreement was also signed between the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Technology, WDC, and the Ukulhas Tourism Board to encourage and assist tourism businesses in Ukulhas to replace single-use plastic items with sustainable alternatives.