Minister of Climate Change, Environment, and Energy Thoriq Ibrahim has announced that the Maldives will have significant solutions to waste management issues by the end of 2028, thanks to the national waste management policy named "Magey Saafu Raajje."
During a special ceremony, the logo and brand for "Magey Saafu Raajje" were inaugurated by the Minister of Tourism, Ibrahim Faisal. Concurrently, the National Waste and Resource Management Policy and Strategy were launched by Minister Thoriq Ibrahim.
"Magey Saafu Raajje" is a five-year roadmap designed to sustainably improve waste management and environmental cleanliness in the Maldives. The policy aims to achieve 12 key objectives, including comprehensive waste management across islands, promoting greener and environmentally friendly measures, and seeking assistance from private entities to reinforce these measures.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Thoriq emphasised the critical importance of providing sustainable, environmentally friendly waste management facilities to all islands in the Maldives. He reiterated that having a designated policy in place will bolster efforts to mitigate the negative externalities associated with ineffective waste management.
Additionally, the minister highlighted the need to implement strategic measures against those involved in the export and import of goods, making them more accountable for waste management. The policy includes "Accident Producer Responsibility," aiming to reduce waste generated by imports related to the tourism industry.
Furthermore, the minister confirmed that the waste management center to be established in Thilafushi in Kaafu Atoll will burn 500 tonnes of waste daily using an environmentally friendly system. However, he warned that 700 tonnes of waste are currently transported to Thilafushi daily, and without strong measures, this figure could rise to 1,000 tonnes within the next 2-3 years.
Minister Thoriq also noted that the government is strengthening the waste management system in cities and large islands through Waste Management Corporation Limited (WAMCO).