Maldives calls for consideration of challenges faced by small nations in protecting the Ozone Layer

The Maldives has called the international community to take into consideration the hindrances and challenges faced by small nations in eliminating substances that harm the ozone layer. Tariq Ibrahim, the Maldivian Minister of Environment, said that quick measures have to be taken to address this issue.

Speaking at the 10th Conference of Parties under the Vienna Convention, Minister Tariq said that these measures must be taken under the Montreal Protocol.

The Minister said that the Maldives had begun the implementation of plans designed to stop use of HCFC gases in fisheries vessels and equipment. However, he expressed concern that HFC gas, used as a substitute, is also harmful to the environment and plays a significant role in bringing about undesirable climate changes, necessitating serious attention.

The Minister said that the Maldives would be among the first countries that would be affected by climate changes.

The Minister said that the best platform to tackle the issue was the Montreal Protocol, through which necessary actions can be facilitated.

According to the Minister, the Maldives had, in union with the Federated States of Micronesia, proposed amendments to the Montreal Protocol so that work on minimizing the usage of HFC gases.

The 10th Conference of the Parties under the Vienna Convention, and the 26th Meeting of the Montreal Protocol took place from 17th to 21st of this month in Paris, France.