Environment Minister Thorig Ibrahim has stated that an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is not required for ship-to-ship bunkering services.
The Maldives launched international bunkering services today in Haa Ali Hoarafushi.
Speaking at a press conference at the President's Office ahead of the launch, Minister Thorig said the ship-to-ship transfer service is already offered in the Maldives.
“An EIA is not necessary because ship-to-ship transfer is already being done,” he clarified.
Responding to questions from reporters regarding environmental concerns, Minister Thorig said the Maldives already has rules and policies to be followed in incidents such as oil spills. The bunkering service will be launched with the necessary measures, and existing protocols will be followed in the event of an oil spill, he added.
The minister further said companies involved in providing bunkering services will be establishing facilities in islands in the future. These facilities will be developed by carrying out EIAs, the minister said.
