Local environment collective submits 'Less Talk More Action' demand list to government

A list of demands endorsed by a large number of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), grassroots movements and private businesses was submitted to various government institutions on Thursday.

'Declare a CLIMATE EMERGENCY in Maldives IMMEDIATELY'

"The world is facing a state of climate crisis. This is a situation that, as you are probably aware, our country and other small developing island states like us, are barely responsible for", stated the collective.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)'s special report argues that unprecedented changes must be brought to the way human civilization utilizes energy in order to limit global temperature rise to 1.5 Degrees Celcius, as opposed to 2 Degree Celsius - the point of no return, as declared by scientific consensus.

"What this means for the Maldives is without swift mitigation and adaptation, our people are at serious risk".

"We need to conserve and protect the remaining thriving coral reefs, mangroves and biodiversity to act as carbon sinks not only because the world needs to reduce the carbon in the atmosphere by 45 percent by 2030, but also because we need these ecosystems as our protection from the forces of nature".

Highlighting various aspects that threaten Maldives including food and water security, environmental destruction and waste management, the collective promotes a more climate-resilient nation.

Calling for action

In order to voice their demands, the movement will take to the streets and strike on Friday at reclaimed suburb Hulhumale'. Beginning at 0700 hours and concluding three hours later, organizers expect a turnout of 100 participants, including school students and environmentalists alike.

"The focus of the strike is to call upon government agencies and businesses to adopt a sustainable governance framework with a purview to encourage the increase in investments into renewable energy and innovative technologies".

The movement called on senior government officials, cabinet ministers and people from all walks of life to engage in meaningful dialogue.

"With a positive attitude and a kind heart, united in one goal, we are certain that everyone can emerge from this experience armed with better knowledge and hopefully, with more positivity towards the years ahead", concluded the alliance.

In addition to Thursday's student protest in the capital city of Male', climate strikes were staged in Kulhudhuffushi, Haa Dhaalu Atoll and Addu City with another protest in Fuvahmulah City.