The Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) held successful public consultation sessions about its Single Use Plastics (SUP) strategy, which is currently available for public consultation. 

The three sessions, held on separate occasions, addressed over 200 members of the public, the General Retailers and Traders Union (GRTU) and the Chamber of Commerce. Experts from ERA listened to the various points raised during the sessions, in order to comprehend the industry’s suggestions and concerns on the strategy. 

The strategy proposes 23 measures, which will lead to a reduction in the consumption of SUP products, therefore less pollution caused by plastic and its products. It will also lead to better waste collection related to these products. 

Those involved in the processes of production, importation and distribution of single use plastic products were invited to attend and responded positively.  In fact, representatives from various sectors and industries attended ERA’s consultation session and voiced their opinions on the single use plastics strategy. The feedback received will be further evaluated for consideration when drawing up the final strategy document. 

The public consultation sessions reflect the stance that the strategy will not simply progress towards becoming legislation. Rather, there must be discussions held with various stakeholders, together with educational campaigns. Legislation must follow a cultural shift, both within the industry and within Maltese communities, and will happen once both industry stakeholders and the public understand the benefits of moving away from using plastics for one time only.  

Those wishing to submit feedback on the strategy may do so until the 21st of June 2019, by visiting https://era.org.mt/en/Pages/Draft-Policies.aspx.  Queries may be sent by email to [email protected] or made by phoning 2292 3500.