The latest European barometer survey has shown that the environment is one of the most important issues for Maltese citizens — second only to immigration, in fact. This is a clear signal that the Maltese are now understanding the importance of the environment and its role in well-being: a fact which, as Environment Minister, gives me hope for the future.

One way by which I intend to address this is by ensuring Malta’s effective participation in the negotiations of the European Green Deal launched by European Commission President von Der Leyen: deal aimed at enhancing social well-being, whilst ensuring sustainable growth and a better Europe for future generations. In concrete terms, the European Green Deal looks to make Europe the global leader in protecting our planet and enhancing citizens’ wellbeing through a better environment. A challenging task, no doubt, but one we are determined to do our utmost to achieve.

The European Green Deal is based on seven policy areas, each of which is likely to have important implications on Malta’s environmental and social well-being. Two policy areas specifically focus on ensuring a clean environment: ‘clean energy’ and ‘eliminating pollution’.  The aim of the former is to remove greenhouse gas emissions, through measures such as better infrastructure, better use of energy among industry and households, and investment in renewable energy. More investment by Government will ensure a sustainable and healthier lifestyle for future generations.

Another two policy areas that target the contribution by different sectors of economic activity: ‘green sustainable industry’, and ‘green buildings and renovations’. The former focuses on industries which have a lot of waste in their operational process such as manufacturing and construction. The aim here is to develop measures to help these industries eliminate waste — and re-use it. The latter is focused on measures aimed at revamping the existing building infrastructure. I believe that this green movement can usher in a new green economy with the potential of creating investments, jobs, and wealth.

Another two policy areas are related to the natural ecosystem: ‘biodiversity’ and ‘from farm to fork’. The former policy area promotes the accessibility of fresh water, the preservation of wildlife, and the issue of deforestation: three main issues that have been consistently highlighted as Malta’s environmental challenges. This policy area also includes the notion of the blue economy for the better use of marine resources. Lastly, focus will be given to Maltese agriculture and livestock to ensure access to safe food from farmers and fishermen through more efficient food production systems, better food storage and packaging, and more.

‘Sustainable mobility’ is likely to pose challenges to our nation: this policy area is aimed at reducing transport emissions by 90% by 2050 by promoting the use of electric vehicles and public transport amongst other measures.  Transport sustainability will be a bigger challenge to overcome because of our geographical location and double insularity. Long-tern solutions need to be found especially with regards to the latter issue, as we need to continue finding ways to make public transport more attractive.  Meanwhile, my Ministry will continue working to promote the purchase of electric vehicles and lead the way towards banning the importation of vehicles working on fossil fuels the near future.

Through the policy areas that are promoted under the European Green Deal and the projects that the Ministry has already, in tis first days, started working up on, we have an opportunity to offer Malta and Gozo a green future - by encouraging a not only a balance between being urban and being green but also by working on new projects that will give Malta the blue and green infrastructure it deserves.

I believe that through the right policy choices and incentives, a healthy environment can co-exist with a strong economy. This green movement needs to be seen as an opportunity for our country and our economy. But Government cannot achieve this alone. Our country needs the collective effort of civil society, NGOs, experts, and industry in general. I look forward to embarking upon and leading the way on Malta’s Green Deal, with all its challenges, lessons, and above all: rewards, for the future of our country.