Malta Achieves 24th Place In Global Sustainable Development Rankings

Jun 25 2025

Malta has made significant strides in sustainable development, advancing 12 places to rank 24th out of 167 countries in the 2025 Sustainable Development Report. This report, issued by the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), awarded Malta a score of 79.3%, representing a notable improvement from its 36th place ranking in the 2024 edition.

Minister for the Environment, Energy and Public Cleanliness, Miriam Dalli, expressed satisfaction at this outcome, stating that the collective work of the government is yielding results recognised on the international stage. She emphasised that the investment and commitment towards sustainable development are improving the quality of life for citizens and strengthening Malta’s global standing in this area.

Despite facing ongoing challenges related to climate, limited natural resources and its insularity as an island nation, Malta has continued to implement policies that protect its environment while supporting its people.

The government has invested in maintaining stable energy prices, expanding renewable energy infrastructure, and upgrading the electricity distribution system to cope with rising temperatures. In the water sector, Malta now boasts the highest quality water nationwide, thanks to continued investment. Waste management improvements are also contributing to progress in the circular economy, where waste is increasingly regarded as a resource.

Minister Dalli reiterated Malta’s determination to continue addressing these challenges through consistent policy development and cross-ministerial collaboration. She reaffirmed that Malta remains committed to achieving the targets it has set as a United Nations member state.

Director of the Sustainable Development Directorate, Francine Pace Caruana, added that Malta is just weeks away from presenting its second Voluntary National Review (VNR) on the Sustainable Development Goals at the United Nations High-Level Political Forum in New York. She explained that the report was developed with the input of all ministries and entities, along with contributions from civil society, the private sector, academia and the general public. The report focused on the progress made while identifying areas where further improvement is needed across social, economic and environmental dimensions.

This positive result coincides with a statement from the National Statistics Office confirming continued growth in the use of renewable energy in Malta. Compared to 2023, photovoltaic energy generation increased by 5.8% in 2024, highlighting the country’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and cleaner energy sources.

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Public Consultation Launched On Malta’s First National Alcohol Policy

Jun 25 2025

Minister for Social Policy and Children’s Rights, Michael Falzon has launched a public consultation on the National Alcohol Policy, aiming to address alcohol consumption through a coordinated and responsible approach. The policy document includes several proposals and is divided into three main pillars. The first priority focuses on reducing the acceptability, accessibility, and availability of alcohol. The consultation will remain open for five weeks, until 31st July.

Minister Falzon highlighted the need for a cultural shift, explaining that alcohol consumption should not be normalized, given the potential negative bio-psycho-social effects. “We need to show that alcohol consumption is not a normal part of our culture. This can be achieved through increased awareness, particularly in schools and workplaces,” the Minister stated.

The main priorities of the policy revolve around promoting a culture of responsibility, particularly by reducing alcohol use in specific locations, especially those frequented by children and young people. It also proposes mandatory training for shop owners and staff who serve or sell alcohol in licensed premises.

The second part of the policy addresses alcohol-related harms, including the impact on individual health, domestic violence, and road accidents linked to driving under the influence. The document also proposes the introduction of an alcohol use screening system.

The third section of the policy deals with cross-cutting issues such as monitoring and evaluation. It proposes the establishment of a National Focal Point on Alcohol, which would play a key role in coordinating and overseeing all related measures.

Anyone who wishes to submit recommendations can do so at: publicconsultation.gov.mt

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Maltese Designers Drop Iconic ‘Make Malta Chill Again’ Hat

Jun 25 2025

Maltese fashion designers Artist X Parascandalo and Stache Studios have teamed up to release a bold new statement piece, the “Make Malta Chill Again” cap, following a tense and eventful few weeks on the island.

The phrase, a clear twist on Donald Trump’s famous “Make America Great Again” slogan, was introduced on the designers’ social media pages, where they shared a video highlighting recent incidents that have shaken Malta.

These included scenes of public fights and the tragic collapse of the Tania Flats building in the heart of Paceville.

In their post, the designers wrote, “MMCA. Make Malta Chill Again. Let’s get the message across,” using fashion as a way to comment on the current state of the country.

The caps will be available in three colours: red, beige, and black. Each one will feature a curved visor, six embroidered eyelets, and an adjustable back strap, combining comfort with a streetwear edge.

What makes this drop special is that the caps are made to order. Each item is produced on demand, meaning every customer receives a unique, handcrafted piece.

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Athletics Team Malta In Fifth Place After Day 1 Of European Athletics Team Championships

Jun 25 2025

Athletics Team Malta kicked off their campaign at the European Athletics Team Championships in Maribor, Slovenia, with a strong showing, ending Day One in fifth position in the 15-nation Division Three competition.

Despite the absence of several key athletes, the Maltese contingent demonstrated remarkable resilience and depth, with standout performances across both track and field events particularly from a number of promising young talents.

Rachela Pace was among the day’s top performers, claiming maximum points for Malta with a superb victory in the long jump, leaping to an impressive 6.39m.

Middle-distance runner Gina McNamara continued her fine form, securing first place in the 800m with a time of 2:10.05, while Matthew Galea Soler impressed in the 400m, clocking 46.90s to take second place.

All three athletes are set to compete again today, aiming to add further points to Malta’s tally.

The women’s relay team also put in a commendable effort, securing third place with a solid time of 46.99s.

With 184 points accumulated, Malta sits in fifth place matching their result from two years ago in Poland. Iceland and Luxembourg currently lead the standings, with Moldova close behind in third on 197 points.

The championships conclude today, with Team Malta looking to capitalise on their strong start and climb further up the leaderboard.

The Maltese team in the European Athletics Team Championship is supported by SportMalta.

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