The Ministry for the Environment, Sustainable Development and Climate Change has recently launched for public consultation a long-term Vision for Malta’s Sustainable Development. It defines Government’s aspirations and outlines the image of Malta that we want to see by 2050.
Sustainable development is not just about the environment. It is a multifaceted concept and involves a long-term, comprehensive and integrated approach to economic, social and environmental processes.
Amongst the responsibilities of my Ministry is the development and implementation of Malta’s Sustainable Development Strategy. Malta’s first Sustainable Development Strategy was adopted in 2007 with a mandate till 2016.
In September 2015, Malta became signatory to the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to be achieved by 2030. These 17 SDGs address global challenges, including poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, prosperity, peace and justice.
The first step in formulating a clear direction for the long-term development of the Maltese Islands was the development of a Vision Document that sets Government’s aspirations and priorities for sustainable development till 2050.
By 2050, Malta’s economic development will be geared towards closing the loop between consumption and production cycles. Government envisages a radical transformation in the way waste is generated and managed as well as a reduction in the consumption of natural resources to sustainable and fair levels. By 2050 Malta’s economic development will occur in a low-carbon and climate resilient manner. Government’s vision is to provide a sustainable transport system which is efficient, inclusive, safe, integrated, reliable and supports attractive urban, rural and coastal environments and communities.
The setting up of a vision and eventually a roadmap to transform the country into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy is also one of the aspirations in the years to come. High-quality research that promotes more sustainable solutions for socio-economic development is thus an essential element.
This Vision also addresses the environmental pillar, where Government is aiming to enhance the sustainability and resilience of communities through enhanced green infrastructure; protecting landscapes, ecosystem services as well as biodiversity; and the secure and sufficient supply of low-carbon energy and water resources. By 2050 the built environment becomes more inclusive, resilient, energy and water efficient, affordable, safe and healthy. Government also aspires to mitigate the threats to Maltese soils, curbing deviant practices and adopt measures aimed at integrated soil conservation and management.
A social commitment which is at heart of this Vision is the eradication of poverty and social exclusion in all its forms. Government will commit itself to focus on the creation of more and better quality jobs that meet the needs of every individual in terms of pay, security and prospects. Building on the work and achievements in recent years, Government’s vision is to move towards a high quality education system accessible to all. Ensuring healthy lives and promoting the wellbeing at all ages is also an essential element for sustainable development. Government strives for a society where by 2050 all individuals are viewed equally.
It is evident that sustainable development is a complex process, requiring striking a balance between diverging interests. Open and transparent communication and consultation are therefore important in allowing individuals to voice their concerns and to feel empowered.
With this in mind, the Ministry for the Environment has embarked on a process of consultation with a wide range of stakeholders. Malta’s Sustainable Development Vision for 2050 is now available for public consultation. I do encourage the public to submit comments by Friday, 30 November 2018.
The next steps that will be taken in order to make Malta’s Sustainable Development Vision for 2050 a reality includes a new Sustainable Development Strategy and Action Plan with short-, medium- and long-term goals, on which the Ministry will be working in the coming months.
Dr Herrera is the Minister for the Environment, Sustainable Development and Climate Change