The government has initiated works to declare Lhaviyani Atoll a biosphere reserve.

A Biosphere Reserve is an area where locals work with biodiversity and its sustainable use. They are designated by UNESCO (United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation). Biosphere reserves are ‘areas of land and marine ecosystems or a combination, which are internationally recognised within the framework of UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere (MAB) programme.

They are nominated by national governments and must meet certain conditions.

Environment Minister Thoriq Ibrahim told a news conference at the President's Office today that three more areas of the Maldives will be nominated for Biosphere Reserves as per the President's pledge.

Thoriq detailed that while the opportunity to express interest in becoming a biosphere reserve is now open, only Lhaviyani atoll has expressed interest so far.

"The funds required for this have been allocated by the Global Environment Facility. So the important thing is that the first biosphere reserve has been selected and will be started in Lhaviyani Atoll soon. The Atoll Council has been informed," Thoriq said.

Maldives currently has three biosphere reserves; one in Baa atoll, and the others in Addu and Fuvahmulah City.