Malta Establishes Europe’s First Climate Authority

Oct 17 2024

In a groundbreaking initiative, the Maltese government has launched the Climate Action Authority, marking a significant milestone as the first of its kind in Europe.

This newly established body will play a pivotal role in Malta’s efforts to combat climate change, with an ambitious goal of achieving climate neutrality by 2050.

The Climate Action Authority will serve as a key player in shaping and implementing Malta’s climate policies. It has been empowered to issue climate-action strategies, lead climate-action projects, and raise public awareness about the urgent need for sustainable practices.

The Authority’s mandate includes working closely with various sectors to coordinate efforts while ensuring the country smooth transition towards a greener, more sustainable future. A governing board has been set up to oversee the Authority’s operations.

A Climate Action Council will provide strategic advice to the government and the Authority. These bodies will collaborate to ensure that Malta’s climate action agenda remains aligned with international standards and that the country continues to play a leading role in global environmental efforts.

The government has emphasised that public engagement is crucial to the success of the initiative, calling on the general public, businesses, and organisations to embrace this transition. With the support of the Climate Action Authority, Malta is positioning itself at the forefront of climate policy in Europe, setting a strong example for other nations to follow.

For more information on the Climate Action Authority and its initiatives, visit https://climateaction.gov.mt/ or contact +356 2385 0500 | [email protected]

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Study Shows Maltese Teenage Girls Addicted To Social Media

Oct 17 2024

A recent study by HSBC (Health Behaviour in School-aged Children) found that Maltese teenage girls ranked second out of 44 countries for signs of addictive social media use.

The study revealed that nearly one in four Maltese adolescents aged 11, 13, and 15 showed patterns of problematic social media behavior, with girls being more affected than boys.

Among 13-year-olds, 28% of girls and 14% of boys displayed signs of excessive use, while for 15-year-olds, the figures were 24% for girls and 13% for boys. In the youngest age group, 18% of 11-year-old girls and 11% of boys exhibited similar behaviors.

The findings highlighted that problematic social media use was more common among teenage girls, while boys were more likely to struggle with issues related to excessive gaming and adolescent gambling.

Overall Romania were ranked the highest when it comes to teens experiencing problematic use of social media, with Malta sitting in second place.

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Developers of Villa Rosa Respond to Criticism; Announce Modifications

Oct 17 2024

Garnet Investments, owners of the controversial Villa Rosa site, have expressed their support for the public consultation initiated by the Planning Authority to update the local plan for the area. In a statement, the company emphasised its commitment to balancing development goals with community needs and environmental protection.

Garnet Investments announced its willingness to revise the Villa Rosa project, including reducing building heights, creating new public open spaces, and withdrawing development from environmentally sensitive areas. The company also plans to bring luxury international hotel brands, introduce an internal road to manage traffic, and ensure sufficient parking. These changes aim to promote sustainable development, in line with government objectives for quality tourism and environmental safeguarding.

However, the project has faced fierce opposition, particularly from environmental group Moviment Graffitti, amongst others. Spokesperson Andre Callus described the project as “an unprecedented monstrosity,” citing concerns over the proposed 35-story tower and two additional towers. Callus warned that the development would have devastating impacts on San Ġorġ Bay and the surrounding community, changing air quality, traffic, and the overall environment.

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Moviment Graffitti has planned a public protest for October 26th, underscoring their determination to oppose the project and calling for stronger collective action to protect Malta’s environment.

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New AC Units Installed In Government School Classrooms

Oct 17 2024

Education Minister Clifton Grima recently announced that approximately 40 additional air conditioning units have been installed, bringing the total to 617 new units across government schools in Malta.

These units will be distributed among classrooms in the country’s 100 government primary and secondary schools, aiming to improve the learning environment for students and teachers.

The updated figures were disclosed in response to a parliamentary question from MP David Agius, who inquired about the number of government school classrooms equipped with new and functional air conditioning systems.

The installation of these units is part of a broader initiative to enhance comfort and support a better learning atmosphere in schools.

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