Maldives Targets One Million New Trees This Year to Combat Climate Change

The Maldivian government aims to plant one million trees this year as part of an ambitious national initiative to plant five million trees across the archipelago. Minister of Climate Change, Environment and Energy Ali Shareef announced the target during a tree-planting event held at Central Park in Hulhumalé to mark World Environment Day. The programme focuses on restoring endangered native tree species and expanding greenery across the islands to enhance biodiversity and climate resilience. According to Minister Shareef, 1.6 million trees have already been planted under the initiative, marking significant progress toward the overall goal. Speaking at the event, Minister of Foreign Affairs Iruthisham Adam emphasized that environmental protection serves as a cornerstone of the Maldives’ foreign policy. She noted that the nation is already facing the direct consequences of climate change, making sustainable environmental safeguards critical for protecting the lives, economy, and unique cultural heritage of the Maldivian people. The gathering served as a dual celebration, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of the Maldives' independence and its 60th year of membership in the United Nations. The event was attended by a diverse group of stakeholders, including government ministers, diplomatic representatives, and officials from the Housing Development Corporation (HDC). Beyond the immediate goal of reforestation, the event aimed to raise public awareness about ecological preservation and encourage citizens to adopt greener lifestyles. By integrating these local efforts with international milestones, the government highlighted the Maldives' active role in global climate diplomacy and its commitment to a sustainable future for the island nation.