The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is hosting a crucial oil spill emergency response training in collaboration with the Maldives Coast Guard and the Oil Spill Control and Prevention Project (OCPP).

Running from January 5 to 16, 2025, the training aims to enhance the country’s oil spill response capabilities.

The training programme unites stakeholders, including officials from the Maldives Coast Guard, EPA staff, personnel from the Ministry of Climate Change, Environment, and Energy, and 10 participants from the Sri Lankan Coast Guard.

Participants will engage in comprehensive sessions covering International Maritime Organization (IMO) Levels 1–3, Incident Command System (ICS) Levels 100–300, and Shoreline Cleanup Assessment Technique (SCAT) management. The programme also incorporates practical training, including aerial surveillance exercises for assessing and responding to oil spills.

This collaboration fosters regional cooperation, crucial for effective environmental protection, as it strengthens ties between the Maldives and Sri Lanka in addressing oil spill incidents and enhancing regional preparedness.