The state of our Environment is a defining issue for all - President Gayoom

President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom has appealed that the state of our environment is a defining issue for each one of us.

He urged the citizens for greater environmental sustainability.

The driving force of our economy, fishing and tourism hinges on the environment and therefore it is crucial to safeguard and sustain it he stated.

The President made this request in his inaugural speech at a ceremony held in Eydhafushi, in South Maalhos Madulu Atoll to mark World Environment Day 2008.

On the 5th of June every year countries and people spread worldwide awareness of environmental issues and focus on how we can get ready to adapt to changes in our climate.

Accordingly, Eydhafushi is the venue for activities to celebrate this year's World Environment Day in the Maldives.

President Gayoom was accorded a warm and hospitable welcome by the people of Eydhafushi on his arrival to commemorate the event.

When the President embarked he was met by the Minister of Environment, Energy and Water Honourable Ahmad Abdulla; event participants visiting the island including Ministers, dignitaries, senior officials of the government, South Maalhos Madulu Atoll Chief, Mohammed Maahir; senior officials of the Atoll Office, senior officials and officials from Eydhafushi, Chiefs and officials from all the islands in the Atoll; Members of the various committees, people of  Eydhafushi and the surrounding islands.

The President was greeted by a special song choreographed by the pupils from the Atoll Education Centre.

The theme of this year,  “CO2, Kick the Habit! Towards a Low Carbon Economy,“ is meant to inspire and encourage actions to eliminate the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide, CO2, a main contributor to global warming.

In his speech at the Eydhafushi ceremony, the President spoke about the theme “CO2, Kick the Habit!.

" He said that the Government and Industries should accord a high priority to comply with this theme and discourage activities which are harmful to the environment.

He stressed that there are many things that can be done to uphold this theme and went on to highlight them.

He pointed out, with satisfaction that it was the Maldives, which by and large has kept alive, a persistent thrust that paved the way in instituting the global agenda against climate change.

The President said that most countries accept Maldives as a leading advocate of the environment and is in an active participant in fostering sustainable environmental practices and measures.

This is a gratifying and delightful achievement for the country and the people, he noted.

The President said that the biggest environmental challenge that we face today is trash piling and improper disposal of garbage.

He noted that the Government is working hard to find a solution for this problem.

The other most pressing problem, he said is that of beach erosion.

In low-lying reef islands storm episodes often cause extensive beach erosion.

A practical preventive measure he told is planting trees.

The coveted “President of Maldives Green Leaf Award for Environmental Excellence” was also presented at today’s ceremony.

The recipients of the Award include Sonevafushi Tourist Resort, R. Ungoofaaru School, Ghiyasuddin School, Centre for Higher Secondary Education, Scout Association of Maldives, Villa Foundation, Maldives Gas Pvt.Ltd and State Trading Organisation Public Ltd and Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company.

The President congratulated and thanked them for their effort in protecting and preserving the environment.

A special commemorative plaque was presented to the President by the people of South Maalhosmadulu Atoll in appreciation of his endeavours to save the environment.

The Atoll Chief, Mr. Mohamed Mahir presented the plaque on behalf of the people.

A plaque was also presented to the people of Haa Dhaal. Nolhivaranfaru by the Government for the dedication they have shown to ecological and environmental preservation.

The Island Chief of Nolhivaranfaru, Mr. Hussain Abdulla accepted the plaque on behalf of the island. 

Prizes were also presented to the winners of the activities held to mark the World Environment Day for the schools of South Maalhosmadulu Atoll.

These prizes were presented by the Minister of Environment, Energy and Water, Mr. Ahmed Abdulla.

A special plaque was also presented to the people of Eydhafushi in appreciation of the excellence with which they had organised the Environment Day 2008 celebrations on the island.

This presentation was also made by the Minister Mr. Ahmed Abdulla.

Minister Ahmed Abdulla and North Maalhosmadulu Atoll Chief, Mr. Mohamed Mahir also spoke at the ceremony.

From the recipients of the “Green Leaf” Award, the Managing Director of MIFCO, Mr. Mohamed Adil Saleem also spoke at the meeting.

After the function the President visited the exhibition site to see the various items that were on display that were participated in various events to mark the World Environment Day 2008.