Environment Minister: Soil erosion reported by 116 islands

Minister of Environment Thorig Ibrahim has said that 116 islands have reported cases of soil erosion.

Speaking in the press conference held today at the Environment Ministry on the Climate Summit held yesterday in New York, the minister said that out of 116 islands that reported soil erosion, 64 face severe erosion; and the government is currently working to protect these islands.

The minister also said that the islands include those facing erosion over extended periods, as well as islands that began facing erosion recently.

“But we are working to prevent erosion from reaching critical levels,” Minister Thorig said.

He mentioned that sea walls are being put up in some of these islands to protect the beaches and prevent erosion.

He also said that when it comes to environmental problems, Maldives will not stand by and watch while the situation deteriorates, but will try to find solutions on their own.

He further said that work has started to provide 30 percent of electricity used in 196 islands to be generated from renewable sources within the next five years.

He said that 30 percent of electricity in Gaafu Dhaalu Thinadhoo is generated from renewable sources, and that this will also be facilitated in additional islands soon.

As part of these efforts, solar panels with a capacity of four megawatts will be installed next year, said Thorig.

“Electricity will soon be provided in Dhaalu Kudahuvadhoo, Raa Ungoofaaru and Kaafu Dhiffushi via solar panels. This work is also being done in five additional islands,” Minister said.

Highlighting the fact that Maldives has the lowest carbon emission, the Minister said that the government is working on creating a policy on low carbon emission to solve environmental problems faced by Maldives, and in the future, all governmental projects will follow this policy.