Environment Minister emphasizes need for strong data system in climate reporting

Minister of Climate Change, Environment, and Energy Thoriq Ibrahim has emphasized the necessity of a robust data system in addressing climate change challenges. He made these remarks at the signing ceremony of an agreement aimed at strengthening data collection for the preparation of the National Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Inventory. The agreement, signed between the Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy, the Utility Regulatory Authority (URA), and the Maldives Bureau of Statistics (MBS), seeks to enhance the accuracy and reliability of data related to climate change and energy use in the Maldives. The signing ceremony took place with Minister Thoriq representing the Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy, and the Minister of Housing, Land, and Urban Development, Ali Haider Ahmed signing on behalf of the Maldives Bureau of Statistics. In his address, Minister Thoriq underscored the importance of a robust data system, noting that the agreement marks a significant step toward establishing a comprehensive, transparent, and accountable reporting framework. He highlighted that this initiative is in line with the Enhanced Transparency Framework (ETF) of the Paris Agreement, which requires countries to provide accurate, consistent, and transparent data to meet climate mitigation and adaptation goals. The agreement aims to strengthen greenhouse gas reporting by improving collaboration between the Ministry, MBS, and the URA. This will enhance the accuracy of energy data collection, essential for meeting climate transparency requirements under the UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement. It will also support the MBS’ ongoing tourism study, incorporating energy data from resorts to provide a clearer picture of energy use in the sector. Technical assistance will update the survey form and ensure data accuracy. This initiative is part of the CBIT Maldives project, funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and supported by the United Nations Environment Programme (UN Environment).