Environment Minister: Quality waste management systems will be launched next year

Minister of Environment and Energy Thorig Ibrahim has said that regional waste management centres would be established next year followed by the launch of quality waste management systems, as part of the government’s efforts to establish waste management systems across the country.

Thorig made this remark while speaking at the closing ceremony of the Plastic Bottles Recycling Project, held by the Scout Association of Maldives, following the provision of water bottles in large quantities as emergency water supply by foreign groups in relation to the recent water shortage in Male’.

Highlighting the priority given by the government to waste management, he said that waste management system projects are underway in 45 islands in Raa, Baa, Lhaviyani, and Noonu atolls.

He also noted the need for a good waste management system in the most populous region in the country, Male’.

“A waste management plan has been put together and efforts are ongoing, to maintain cleanliness in Male’, Hulhumale’, and Vilimale’. The Male’ waste management plan is also expected to be completed and launched early next year,” said Thorig.

Thorig urged everyone to fulfil their individual responsibilities in terms of waste management, and assured that the government would not fine individuals for violating the Waste Management Regulation except as a last resort.