Conference on sustainable development in Gozo

The National Commission for Sustainable Development, in collaboration with the Ministry for Gozo and the University Gozo Centre, recently held a conference on sustainable development in Gozo at the Ta' Cenc Hotel in Sannat.

Held with the support of the EC Representation in Malta, the conference was attended by about 90 participants.

The head of the EC Delegation in Malta, Ronald Gallimore, in his introductory speech, said the meeting was important as sustainable development encompasses economic, social and environmental dimensions.

Minister Giovanna Debono spoke about the meaning of sustainable development, emphasising that it has an ethical dimension as it involves planning long-term for future generations.

Minister for Rural Affairs and the Environment George Pullicino, who is also the Prime Minister's representative as chairman of the National Commission for Sustainable Development, also referred to the ethical dimension of sustainable development and the need to act responsibly to improve the quality of life of the population as a whole.

Professor Lino Briguglio said that ultimately sustainable development is intended to improve the quality of life and that economic development and efficiency is very important in this regard.

The participants were then divided into three groups, focusing on economic, environmental and social issues, respectively. Each group was asked to review the draft strategy document and to suggest improvements to the text.

A video on sustainability indicators was also shown and a presentation was delivered on the purpose of a sustainable development strategy. The conference helped to create greater awareness on the need for sustainable development to be holistic and that social, economic and environmental concerns should be integrated in development strategies and plans for implementation.

Participants were given the opportunity to share their views and express their opinions on what is required to promote sustainable development in Gozo and Malta.