Photo by Ministry of Tourism and Enviroment

Written by: Mibsam Salman

MCGF Meets Ministry of Environment on Five Million Tree Project

The Maldives Clean and Green Foundation (MCGF) recently met with the Ministry of Environment to discuss key priorities under the Five Million Tree Project, with a strong focus on addressing extreme heat conditions and strengthening food security in vulnerable islands.

During the discussion, MCGF highlighted the urgent need for targeted tree-planting initiatives in islands such as GDh. Thinadhoo, which experience consistently high temperatures and limited natural tree cover. The lack of greenery in such islands exacerbates heat stress, affects community well-being, and reduces resilience to climate change impacts.

MCGF emphasized the importance of planting heat-resilient and multifunctional trees, particularly coconut trees, breadfruit trees, and other native species, which provide shade, cooling effects, and nutritional benefits. These trees play a critical role in protecting communities from extreme heat while also contributing to local food security and sustainable livelihoods.

A key proposal discussed during the meeting was the establishment of a botanical garden in Thinadhoo. Given the island’s hot climate and scarcity of trees, a botanical garden would serve as a vital green space, helping to reduce ambient temperatures through increased vegetation and evapotranspiration. Such a space would also act as a living laboratory for climate-resilient plants, native species conservation, and environmental education.

The impact of a botanical garden in a warm climate extends beyond temperature regulation. It can improve air quality, enhance biodiversity, and create a cooling microclimate that benefits surrounding communities. Additionally, a botanical garden can support food-producing plants, medicinal species, and traditional crops, contributing to long-term food security and ecological resilience.

MCGF noted that creating green spaces in urbanized and heat-prone islands like Thinadhoo is not only an environmental necessity but also a public health priority. Access to shaded areas and green environments has been shown to improve mental well-being, encourage outdoor activity, and strengthen community connection to nature.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to continue collaboration under the Five Million Tree Project, ensuring that tree-planting efforts are strategic, climate-responsive, and tailored to the unique needs of each island. MCGF reaffirmed its dedication to supporting initiatives that promote greener, cooler, and more resilient communities across the Maldives.

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