Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has officially launched its initiative to plant 100,000 trees as part of the government’s nationwide 5 Million Trees Programme, one of the largest reforestation efforts in the country’s history.
The tree planting campaign was inaugurated at a special ceremony held near the new passenger terminal at Velana International Airport (VIA). The event was officiated by Minister of Tourism and Environment Thoriq Ibrahim and attended by MACL Managing Director Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed along with other company officials.
The Five Million Trees Programme, introduced last year, aims to reforest islands and urban areas across the Maldives, improve biodiversity, and promote climate resilience. To date, over 500,000 trees have already been planted under the initiative. While the programme’s original target was five million trees, pledges have now surpassed 6.3 million from various government bodies, private organisations, and individuals.
The government has set a goal to plant at least two million trees by the end of this year. Officials have emphasised that this tree planting initiative is designed for long-term sustainability, addressing the shortcomings of previous programmes that lacked follow-through and proper maintenance. President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s administration has committed to ensuring the continuity and success of the project over the coming years.
A key focus of the programme is the restoration and protection of endangered plant species native to the Maldives. So far, 90 endangered species have been identified and prioritised for planting. The government has called on citizens, institutions, and communities nationwide to contribute actively to the initiative.
MACL’s participation in the programme reflects the company’s broader commitment to environmental sustainability and enhancing the natural beauty of the airport surroundings as part of its ongoing infrastructure development.