For the second  year, the Local Government Division launched a financial scheme linked to 'World Clean-up Day'.

This day is celebrated every year and unites millions of volunteers, governments and organizations around the world to tackle the global problem of waste. This year World Clean-up Day is being held today, Saturday 16 September.

After a call of interest was issued for local and regional councils, 45 Local Councils benefited from funds in order to organize cleaning and waste collection activities in their respective localities, during the month of September.

The main objective of this initiative is for the councils to unite their respective communities in order to carry out a cleaning that will give  localities a cleaner appearance.

Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government Alison Zerafa Civelli visited Pembroke and Msida, where clean-ups were happening.

"A healthy and clean environment has a positive impact on human health and contributes to fewer diseases. Therefore, we are sending a message to society that an investment in cleanliness is an investment in our health," she said.

The activities of the Local Councils vary from cleaning roads and open spaces to collecting waste from various gardens, beaches and underwater clean-ups. Through the funds given, the Southern Regional Council will also be launching an education campaign in collaboration with the Chamber for Small and Medium Enterprises on the management of waste generated by businesses.