Government well aware that clock is ticking on achieving 2020 waste targets - Farrugia

The Maltese government is well aware that the clock is ticking on achieving the 2020 waste targets, but the case needs to be contextualized, Environment Minister Aaron Farrugia said.

He was speaking during a meeting in Brussels on pressing environmental issues, waste, and the European Green Deal, which included a meeting with the European Commissioner for Environment, Virginijus Sinkevičius.

As a result of this meeting, the government will be receiving support from the Commission services in the identification and implementation of best practices, particularly through the TAIEX-EIR PEER 2 PEER programme, which will help Malta move closer towards its waste targets.

Farrugia said the government’s plan for waste management will be finalised by the end of the year and carry the country until year 2030.

“Our waste management is challenged by significant structural and economical aspects. We have in the pipeline the development of different infrastructures which will effectively contribute in turning waste into a resource. The waste-toenergy facility will accelerate such processes. We are developing a multi-materials processing facility aimed at improving the recyclability of different waste streams and increasing their value, as well as a mechanical biological treatment facility to treat organic waste,” he said.

The discussion also touched upon the Commission’s vision on a number of topics, including the circular economy, oceans, and biodiversity.