The proposal affected Malta because of its strategic position in the centre of the Mediterranean, a Department of Information statement said yesterday.

This change should lead to less air pollution and therefore less impact on the environment, humankind and historical buildings.

Another proposal that was approved regards uniformity in the classification of bathing waters. By 2015, all EU member states will be classifying their bathing waters in four categories.

In comments he made after the meeting, Rural Affairs and Environment Minister George Pullicino said the decisions taken guaranteed a better future for Malta. He emphasised that now Malta is an EU member, it is actively participating in decision-making processes that were aimed at improving the quality of life.