Minister of Tourism and Environment Thoriq Ibrahim has said three regulations are being formulated to strengthen the implementation of the Waste Management Regulation, as part of ongoing efforts to improve waste management practices in the Maldives.

Speaking at a press briefing on Monday, the minister said the regulations include a general waste management regulation, a regulation on the provision of waste management services, and a regulation on single-use waste, noting that stakeholder consultations and legal drafting have been completed and the regulations are in the final stages of preparation.

He added that work is also underway to introduce an extended producer responsibility framework, which will require producers to take responsibility for the waste generated from their products after use.

The minister said enforcement measures will be strengthened to address improper waste disposal, including dumping waste in public areas such as beaches, noting that action will be taken against violators, while emphasising that the objective is to promote accountability rather than punishment.

Minister Thoriq further stressed the importance of individual responsibility in waste management, noting that awareness efforts have been carried out to encourage responsible waste practices, given the broader impact of waste management on public health, environmental protection and the economy.