A circular economy seems to be a far cry and Partit Demokratiku calls for the immediate implementation of green procurement in an all in government approach.

Government’s runaway development policy, where the market supply is based on the demands of yesterday, is pushing Malta into dire straits, the party said in a statement. Malta needs structured  preparedness via an overarching strategy. This should have been launched a few years back. Partit Demokratiku notes that this has pushed us into a situation which is very similar to Malta’s dilemma in traffic and mobility management.

“We have 16 potential unused quarries that can be used as landfills for inert waste material. Most sites are leased public land and yet most ‘owners’ seem to be putting their foot down so that these quarries are not used as landfills. They seem to have different intentions in mind. Only two quarries are at present operating,” said party leader Godfrey Farrugia. “Moreover, government has the legal power to stop quarry operating licenses and to withdraw agreements on the land leased of such properties. Our national interest should dictate the way forward, more so if sites are public property.”

“Sustainable construction calls for the re-use of existing parts of buildings and materials; the separation of construction waste and its recycling even into another form; and the re-development or rehabilitation of unused buildings. Malta’s carrying capacity has been reached. These concepts decrease the burden on landfills.” stated MEP candidate Dr Anthony Buttigieg.

“The Climate Change Paris agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals of UN call for timely action. Malta’s Sustainable Development Act has been enacted since 2012. Its objective is to mainstream sustainable development across the workings of government and to raise awareness of sustainable  development  issues and practices across society. The time has come to wake up," stated MEP candidate Camilla Appelgren.