Labour TV head and head of the Valletta Cultural Agency Jason Micallef has taken aim at a recently announced government initiative to plant a tree for every 'yes' vote on X Factor Malta.

Minister for the Environment, Climate Change and Planning Aaron Farrugia announced that X Factor will be the first TV Programme to go entirely paperless and will also embark upon a tree-planting campaign.  Minister Farrugia said that these positive initiatives contribute to waste reduction and prevention, which is a key area in Malta's long-term waste management plan.

"As a government, we are starting to implement the measures of our ambitious long-term waste management plan. Meanwhile, we welcome all initiatives by the private sector to reduce waste, raise awareness, and contribute to our environment. This kind of social and environmental conscience is what drives our economy in the right direction, ensuring that Malta maintains a sustainable and prosperous path", stated the minister.

Moreover, during the audition session, any time a judge says 'yes' to every promising participant, a tree will be planted. Through this initiative, about 100 trees are expected to be planted later this year.

In a post, Micallef said: "If Malta's environment initiatives are to take place around X Factor, we truly have a serious problem about how we think and treat the environment. Give them a YES so that we plant a tree! What mediocrity."