Minister of Climate Change, Environment, and Energy Thoriq Ibrahim has announced the government's commitment to commence planting five million trees in commemoration of World Environment Day.
Speaking to PSM News, Minister Thoriq elaborated that President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's initiative for this tree planting project will commence on World Environment Day in June. The project aims to cover all residential islands and resorts, focusing on four tree types, which include endangered species, fruit-bearing trees, shade-providing trees, and those used in local medicine.
Additionally, Minister Thoriq highlighted previous tree planting initiatives, noting their lack of sustainability due to insufficient maintenance. To address this, he said that over 90 tree species will be introduced in the subsequent phase, with nurseries established on islands to facilitate public access to trees. He urged local councils, businesses, and private organisations to participate in the initiative.
President Dr. Muizzu's commitment to planting five million trees over the next five years in the Maldives, announced during the United Nations Climate Change Conference COP28, underscores the government's dedication to environmental conservation. In addition, neighboring countries have pledged to contribute trees to support the Maldives' ambitious tree planting programme.