This document is a national short to medium term multisectoral strategy and action plan of Malta for the period 2016-2020. Its main objective is to contextualise the nature of the Green Economy with the purpose of bringing together all necessary objectives and actions towards a green economy in Malta; giving them a framework of structure and timeline; enhancing them and striving towards their effective realisation. This document and the action plan here identified are based on the presumption that, in order for it to enable a green economy, the thrust of the action plan must be specific, with actions directed towards particular areas and sectors that could benefit the most in the short to medium term. Therefore, this document seeks to: - Articulate Government’s understanding of what constitutes the Green Economy; - Identify a set of actions that can contribute to EU/ national obligations and commitments within a reasonable time-frame and with the resources that can be made available. Malta's vision is that their economy shall in the future: 1) Grow sustainably and for the long term; 2) Use natural resources efficiently and effectively; 3) Exploit comparative advantages; 4) Be more resilient; 5) Provide quality rewarding jobs for our people; 6) Embrace all social sectors. In identifying the target areas, particular consideration was given to existing obligations and commitments that emanate from the European Union and related national targets. This document incorporates 53 initiatives spread across a total of nine (9) pillars (or sectors) that are considered a priority, and when these are effectively executed, they will lead to green-led economic growth. The sectorial pillars of the Green Economy strategy have been identified on the basis of the State of the Environment Report, which highlights the following economic sectors as major drivers of environmental change: housing (including construction and minerals extraction), energy, agriculture, tourism, transport and industry. Horizontal themes include the creation of green jobs and the change of locals’ thoughts, attitudes and behaviours in favour of going green (education). In efforts to effectively raise awareness on Sustainable Development, Malta's Government undertook a number of initiatives, which includes: introducing for the first time ever briefings on Sustainable Development to Permanent Secretaries of all Ministries; the encouragement of the Focal Groups according to the Sustainable Development Act; and the setting up of orientation seminars for Sustainable Development to Local Councils.
Malta · 2016-01-01