The main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has expressed concern over the government's decision to roll back key components of the single-use plastic ban introduced in 2020.
The Muizzu administration's recent move includes delaying the ban on several items, including plastic straws, until 2031.
In a press statement, the MDP noted that the policy to prohibit the import of various single-use plastics, including straws, had been in effect since June 2021, with implementation efforts spanning over five years.
"The government's latest decision is a significant environmental setback, coming at a time when the public and businesses had already adapted to these regulations over several years. We have observed a noticeable reduction in plastic waste on our beaches and in public spaces since this policy was introduced," the MDP stated.
The party further asserted that altering such policies without justifiable cause or sound reasoning undermines regulatory certainty and erodes public trust in the government’s environmental commitments.
Criticising the government's justifications as inadequate, the MDP highlighted the lack of transparency regarding the necessity of this change. The party noted that the administration has failed to provide any research or substantial evidence to explain why the issues could not be addressed through regulations or why an extension until 2031 was required.
"For a nation like the Maldives, where the economy, the livelihoods of our citizens, and our international standing are inextricably linked to the health of our oceans and environment, decisions regarding single-use plastic pollution must be steadfast and evidence-based," the MDP said.
"Repeatedly delaying environmental commitments discourages businesses from investing in future regulatory compliance. It undermines the Maldives' international advocacy on environmental issues and shows a blatant disregard for the ecological well-being of our nation."
The MDP emphasised that the Maldives should build upon the progress already achieved in environmental protection. The party called for the country to reclaim its role as a global leader in its commitment to phasing out single-use plastics.
The party pledged that a future MDP administration would reinstate and strengthen the single-use plastic policy. This would include establishing standards for sustainable alternatives, supporting businesses in transitioning to these standards, increasing producer responsibility, and enhancing waste reduction measures.
Furthermore, the MDP called upon President Mohamed Muizzu’s administration to fully implement the single-use plastic reduction policy and to refrain from reversing the environmental progress achieved to date.
