Special Envoy for Climate Change Ali Shareef has highlighted the government's goal to reduce the use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) in the Maldives. He made the remarks during the opening ceremony of a forum organised by the Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) in occasion of this year's International Ozone Day,
Speaking at the Ozone Day Forum, Special Envoy Ali Shareef emphasised the crucial role of the ozone layer in shielding the Earth from harmful sunlight. He noted that airports and aviation operations contribute significantly to the release of toxic gases into the atmosphere. He also said that Velana International Airport (VIA) is currently working to lower its emissions.
Additionally, Special Envoy Ali Shareef outlined the government's efforts to cut down on HFC emissions, particularly due to their widespread use in refrigeration appliances and their impact as potent greenhouse gases in the Maldives. He praised the commitment of MACL to green initiatives, announcing that the company aims to shift 90% of the airport's energy consumption to renewable sources. The move, he added, aligns with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's broader objective of converting 30% of the Maldives' energy supply to renewable sources.
Meanwhile, Managing Director of MACL Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed affirmed the company’s plans to adopt eco-friendly practices. He revealed the company's ambition to become a solar-powered renewable energy company, with a long-term goal of generating and selling more solar energy than it consumes. He also said that the company is working towards transitioning its fleet of vehicles to renewable energy.
The MACL Ozone Day Forum, held at the Islamic University of the Maldives, was a one-day event attended by MACL employees and representatives from various government institutions. The forum aimed to educate participants on the harmful effects of toxic substances on the ozone layer and explore strategies to minimize their use. International Ozone Day is celebrated annually on September 16 to raise awareness about ozone layer depletion and promote efforts to mitigate further damage.