President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has called for stronger participation from youth, schools and community organisations in the Government's Five Million Trees Programme, describing public involvement as essential to the success of the national greening initiative.

Speaking in the inaugural episode of The Pulse podcast, the President highlighted the Maldives' longstanding commitment to environmental protection and climate action. He noted that the country has consistently advocated for environmental issues on the international stage since the administration of former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom.

President Dr Muizzu also acknowledged the important role played by community groups and civil society organisations in supporting environmental conservation efforts across the country.

Highlighting tree planting as one of the Government's key environmental initiatives, the President said the Five Million Trees Programme offers an opportunity for citizens to contribute directly to creating a greener Maldives. He stressed the importance of encouraging young people and school students to take an active role in the initiative, describing environmental stewardship as a shared responsibility.

He noted that many urban centres and larger islands have limited tree cover, contributing to higher temperatures and reducing the availability of green spaces. He emphasised that expanding vegetation and increasing tree cover are important measures for improving the living environment and strengthening climate resilience.

Expressing confidence in the programme, President Dr Muizzu said the target of planting five million trees is achievable and can be completed within the remaining two-and-a-half years of the current administration.

Addressing concerns over development projects, the President assured that any trees removed to facilitate Government infrastructure works would be replaced elsewhere, with additional trees planted to further enhance green spaces. He cited housing and hospital development projects in Vilimalé as examples where compensatory planting measures would be undertaken.

The President emphasised that development and environmental protection should progress together, rather than at the expense of one another. He also highlighted broader environmental initiatives being implemented by the Government, including efforts to establish waste management centres throughout the Maldives. The President added that the Administration aims to ensure that every inhabited island has access to a waste management facility during its current term.

In addition, President Dr Muizzu noted that coastal protection projects are advancing at an accelerated pace as part of the Government's efforts to enhance environmental sustainability and strengthen the country's resilience to climate-related challenges.