Minister: Air pollution a threat despite lack of industrial factories

Air pollution poses a threat to Maldives despite the lack of industrial factories which emit harmful gases in the country, says Health Minister Abdulla Ameen.

Ameen made the remark at the launch of the BreatheLife Campaign this Tuesday.

Speaking at the event, Ameen noted that emissions from industrial factories played a key role in air pollution in other countries.

He said that though Maldives may not have any industrial factories, air pollution from other sources posed a threat to the health of Maldivian people.

“What we produce in this country plays a role in pollution and damage of our environment. And what about the emissions from the vehicles we drive? And what about the chemicals and fiber used to build boats?” asked Ameen.

He also highlighted on the health implications of construction work, and the direct and indirect health implications from smoking.

Ameen said that respiratory and heart disease is a major issue in Maldives – both of which air pollution contributes to and aggravates.

He said that some forms of air pollution can be stopped and avoided altogether.

He said that such efforts must be led both at a civic and institutional level.

The BreatheLife Campaign launched this Tuesday is a national action plan which comprises of policies and mechanisms to monitor policies to raise awareness on air pollution and empower civilians and communities in combatting the detrimental effects of air pollution.

The campaign is run by Health Ministry in collaboration with World Health Organization (WHO), Health Protection Agency (HPA), and Environment Ministry.