ECOSM Secures EU-Backed Grant to Launch Climate Resilience Project in South Huvadhu Atoll

The Ecological Society of Maldives has signed a landmark grant agreement to deliver practical, household-level climate solutions to communities across two islands in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll.

The Ecological Society of Maldives (ECOSM) has signed a grant agreement with The Asia Foundation under the Strengthening Maldivian Civil Society as Actors of Development and Governance programme, funded by the European Union. The 10-month initiative — titled "Climate-Resilient Families: Home-Level Waste, Water & Energy Solutions" — will be implemented across Rathafandhoo and Nadella in South Huvadhu Atoll.

USD 7,500 Total project Budget

15-20 Model House Holds

60+ Community Participants

What we're building

Three pillars of household resilience

The project takes a whole-home approach, equipping families with tools and knowledge across three interconnected climate challenges.

♻ Waste management Compost systems and waste sorting guides for every model home.

💧 Water safety WHO-approved filters, storage vessels, and water testing tools.

⚡ Energy efficiency LED lighting, solar lanterns, and energy-smart home practices.

Who we serve

Inclusion at the centre

The project prioritises the most vulnerable members of island communities. Model households will be selected to represent women-led homes, households with persons with disabilities, youth-led families, and the elderly — ensuring that climate solutions reach those who need them most.

Throughout the project period, more than 60 community members will participate in hands-on training workshops, awareness activities, and knowledge-sharing sessions. All training materials will be bilingual, with Dhivehi-language guides developed for every theme.

Partnership

Built with the community, not just for it

ECOSM will implement the project in close collaboration with the Island Councils and Women's Development Committees (WDC) of both Rathafandhoo and Nadella. This partnership structure ensures that communities remain at the centre of decision-making — from household selection to activity design.

"Climate change affects every household. This project puts practical solutions directly into the hands of the people who need them most." - Nizam Ibrahim, Co-Founder & President, ECOSM

Looking ahead

The road to a resilient island

Over the course of 10 months, the project will move through community consultations, capacity-building workshops, model household installation, a youth-led awareness campaign, and a culminating Community Climate Resilience Day — an island-wide celebration showcasing model homes and the progress made by participating families.

ECOSM sees this project as a replicable model for community-led climate action that can be scaled to other islands across the Maldives.

This project is funded by the European Union and implemented through The Asia Foundation under the Strengthening Maldivian Civil Society programme.