The World Health Organisation (WHO) donated two air quality monitoring systems to the Maldivian government on Tuesday in an effort to monitor the quality of air in Hulhumalé.
The Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Technology signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Housing Development Corporation (HDC) to install ambient air quality monitoring systems (AAQMS) and sensors in the city.
Environment Minister Aminath Shauna signed the MoU on behalf of Maldives government, and HDC’s Managing Director Ahmed Athif signed on behalf of the corporation.
The air quality monitoring stations will be set up in the Central Park in phase 1 and the other station will be set up in phase 2.
"Ministry of Environment and HDC will collaborate in publicising the data collected from these stations and raising public awareness on air quality," the ministry stated.
The AAQM systems will be used to consistently analyse air pollution levels and monitor the presence of harmful compounds or chemicals in the air. This also includes monitoring the density of particulate matter and carbon dioxide levels. The systems will provide Air Quality Index (AQI) data, which helps with the assessment of pollution contributors.
AQI is used by government agencies to gauge air pollution levels and forecast future pollution expectations.
Data collected through the systems will be categorised in six different colour codes, each indicating the impact on health in varying degrees.
Installation of the AAQM systems is a part of the government's initiative to bolster environment protection and sustainability policies. The Maldives government earlier installed similar systems in: Haa Dhaalu atoll Kulhudhuffushi, Shaviyani atoll Funadhoo, Lhaviyani atoll Naifaru, Dhaalu atoll Kudahuvadhoo, Laamu atoll Gan, Gaafu Dhaalu atoll Thinadhoo, Gnaviyani atoll Fuvahmulah and Hithadhoo in Addu City.
The ministry is currently working towards installing similar air quality monitoring system in Malé and Villimalé.
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