Friends of the Earth Malta (FoEM) is thankful for the opportunity to provide feedback on the Grand Harbour Revival Plan, and are encouraged to see a number of important considerations already discussed in the plan, such as concerns around gentrification, the importance of climate resilient design, and the necessity of securing public access to the waterfront and proposed park. We believe the plan can do more to protect and bring back nature into this urban and industrial landscape, and can be an opportunity to provide safe, direct and attractive connectivity for walking, cycling and public transport through this key node in Malta’s transport network and urban area.
In December 2019, the European Commission (EC) presented the European Green Deal (EGD), a “new growth strategy” consisting of a broad and ambitious roadmap aiming to “transform the EU into a fair and prosperous society, with a modern, resource-efficient and competitive economy”. It’s main aim is to “make Europe the first climate-neutral continent by 2050, boosting the economy, improving people’s health and quality of life, caring for nature, and leaving no one behind”.
Plans under the Green Deal include:
- A new European Climate Law (the first draft was published in March 2020)
- A 50-55% cut in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 (previously 40%)
- A circular economy action plan
- A flagship building renovation programme
- A new biodiversity strategy to tackle deforestation, soil and water pollution
- A healthier agricultural system, with reduced use of chemical pesticides, fertilisers and antibiotics
- A low-carbon transport sector, with more electric vehicles and hybrid fuels
Source: Press Release on ec.europa.eu
The Youth from across Europe have raised their voices
As a result of joint forces from multiple organisations we are pleased to present ‘The Youth Proposal for a Green Deal for Europe’. This proposal highlights the need for change, the need for a better future that is socially just and ecologically sound. Not only must our future include healthier environments, restoration of the commons and reduced pollution, we are pushing for better access to education, a respect for different cultural backgrounds and the redistribution of wealth to support the Global South. This is not just a vision for the future of the environment, it is one for people across the world to bring forth climate justice and social justice.
Read ‘The Youth Proposal for a Green Deal for Europe’ by clicking the PDF below!
Read the visions for a socially just and more sustainable future here!
System Reset: what is it?
We are part of a pan-European project, led by Friends of the Earth groups in Malta, Ireland, Denmark, Estonia, North Macedonia, Cyprus, Spain, Croatia and Austria. Our aim is to build platforms across Europe to bring young people from under-represented communities into multi-levelled decision-making and build strong, collective visions for a socially just and ecologically sound future. We strive for intersectionality and inclusiveness.
If you want to learn more about ongoing Young Friends of the Earth events, visit their page.
Our Blog
Watch Nature Unfold Live: A Rare Barn Swallow Nesting
Friends of the Earth Malta is excited to announce a special collaboration with BirdLife Malta, bringing nature enthusiasts, families, and...
How much of your life are you wasting in traffic?
After weeks of discussions on transport proposals in the run up to the elections, the potential of cycling was hugely...
Malta’s seas are not a playground for oil giants
It may be a repeating election gimmick, but Friends of the Earth Malta denounces the Maltese government’s decision to once again open the door to fossil fuel exploration in our waters, by giving oil giant Chevron a licence for exploratory studies for oil and gas.
Streets for People, Not Just Cars: NGOs Urge Rethink of Msida Bridge Plans
Friends of the Earth Malta, Moviment Graffitti and Rota strongly condemn the recent proposal to build a pedestrian bridge as part of the Msida Creek project. The NGOs noted that similar proposals to build pedestrian bridges as part of the original plans for the project in 2020 had been shot down for a multitude of reasons.
Dwejra is to be lit up: Government’s “Protection” Law Is a Blatant Betrayal of Dwejra and a Fraud on the Public
The undersigned organisations condemn, in the strongest possible terms, the destructive bill drafted by government under the pretence of “protecting” Dwejra. This law does not protect Dwejra. It vandalises it. It is a calculated assault on the last remaining dark site of the Maltese Islands, dressed up in green language to hoodwink the public.
Environmental NGOs bring the sustainability initiative to the island, working with restaurants and the community to increase planet-conscious options
This February, restaurants and community spaces across Malta are coming together to show how everyday food choices can become powerful climate action. Through shared tables, familiar flavours, and environmentally-friendly creativity, the Eat for Impact initiative is demonstrating how local decisions can generate measurable global environmental benefits.
Waste Reduction Before Incineration
In response to the very thorough article written by Denis Zammit Cutajar, on 25th January entitled “A golden opportunity to rethink the waste-management strategy,” I would like to thank the author, and reiterate many of the same points. We should take this opportunity to reevaluate the need for a large incinerator on Malta.
Streets for People, Not Just Cars: NGOs Urge Rethink of Msida Bridge Plans
Friends of the Earth Malta, Moviment Graffitti and Rota strongly condemn the recent proposal to build a pedestrian bridge as part of the Msida Creek project. The NGOs noted that similar proposals to build pedestrian bridges as part of the original plans for the project in 2020 had been shot down for a multitude of reasons.
Malta gears up to ‘Eat for Impact’ to lower nationwide environmental footprint in February
Environmental NGOs bring the sustainability initiative to the island, working with restaurants and the community to increase planet-conscious options
Press Release: Are we prepared for more storms like Harry?
Storm Harry hit our islands hard yesterday. Gale force winds and 12-meter-high waves out at sea caused flooding and damage, especially in low-lying coastal towns like Marsascala. Thankfully no lives were lost in this storm, but there was a glaring lack of preparation to deal with the storm and protect communities.
Looking Back on 2025: Insights and Inspirations as 2026 Begins
With the arrival of a new year, Friends of the Earth Malta (FoEM) renews its commitment to working tirelessly for a better environment and a sustainable future for both people and the planet. As the NGO reflects on the achievements of the past year, it also celebrates a significant milestone.
This project has been funded with support from the European Commission. This webpage reflects the views only of the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.
This project is co-financed by the Ministry for Education and Employment (MEDE) and the Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Sport and Voluntary Organisations.