WasteServ's new automated glass sorting line, which government says will nearly triple its existing processing capacity, is nearing completion, "marking a significant step forward in Malta's commitment to sustainable waste management practices," a statement read.

"This sorting line, which is in its final stages of commissioning, is so technologically advanced that it can process around 10 tonnes of glass per hour - circa 52,500 glass bottles - raising WasteServ's annual operational capacity to 21,000 tonnes from the existing 8,000 tonnes per year."

Accompanied by WasteServ CEO Richard Bilocca, Environment Minister Miriam Dalli visited the site to see the ongoing progress on the plant.

"With an investment of over €2.5 million, this new sorting line represents an important step towards achieving a circular economy. Not only will it drastically increase our current operational capacity, but it will also provide us with glass of a superior quality that can then be transformed into new products," said Minister Dalli.

The new plant is equipped to process flat glass, including window panes, diversifying the range of glass types that can be diverted away from the landfill, the statement read. "Using the latest technology, including automated sorting equipment, the system will clean the glass of any contaminants, sort it by colour to separate clear glass from green and amber variants, and in turn lead to material of a higher grade."

CEO Richard Bilocca said that following this elaborate process, the end product will be 'furnace-ready' material. This means manufacturers can save time and eliminate further processing to immediately reintegrate the glass into their operations and produce recycled bottles and jars.

The plant is situated at the Sant'Antnin facility in Marsascala and forms part of the strategic decision to downsize operations at this facility and transform 24,000 square metres of land into a recreational green park for the public.