Environment Minister Thoriq Ibrahim has said it is important to plan developmental projects in the most eco-friendly way possible to minimise negative impacts on the environment.
He made the statement after inaugurating the “Climate Change Mainstreaming and Risk Screening” workshop.
The workshop titled “Climate Risk Screening for Mainstreaming Climate Change Adaptation in Development Activities and Policies” is facilitated by the Asian Development Bank, and targets countries in the South Asia region. The programme aims to increase capacity in managing the impacts of climate change by effectively transitioning to a low-carbon and climate-resilient development path. It seeks to achieve these goals by strengthening screening of investment projects against climate risks, and by strengthening the capacity of Destination Management Companies (DMCs) to develop and implement climate change strategies and action plans.
Speaking at the inauguration of the workshop, Environment Minister Thoriq Ibrahim highlighted the role of Maldives as the chair of the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS). He said the Government aims to make the Maldives a pioneer in climate change adaptation and mitigation. Citing the Government’s ambitious economic transformation plan, Thoriq noted the importance of ensuring that developmental projects are designed in the most eco-friendly way possible to minimise environmental damage. The minister thanked ADB for its continued partnership and assistance towards the developmental of the Maldives.
According to the Environment Ministry, the workshop will see discussions on minimising environmental damage caused by developmental projects, the state of the country’s environment, in addition to climate change adaptation and mitigation. It is facilitated by experts from ADB.