Key policy question: What is the trend in waste generation?

The environmental impacts of waste generation and management include air and water pollution. Impacts also include land take-up for landfills, loss of natural resources, and negative effects on human health. Between 2005 and 20061 waste generation increased by seven per cent, with the majority of it being landfilled (80 per cent), while the rest was recycled, stored or exported. Some construction and demolition waste was also disposed of at sea. Between 2006 and 2007 municipal waste generated increased by five per cent, to 265,947 tonnes, while commercial and industrial waste generated rose by 46 per cent during the same period. Hazardous waste generated amounted to 53,600 tonnes in 2006, 97 per cent of which was stored for export.

Policy responses: Actions taken by Mepa include contributions to the revised Solid Waste Management Strategy, registration and permitting systems, and the commencement of work on a biodegradable waste strategy.

The Environment Report seeks to increase awareness and understanding of key environmental issues and trends, to provide a sound evidence base for policy and decision-making, and to facilitate the measurement of environmental performance and progress towards sustainability. For more information visit www.mepa.org.mt/ter.

Reference

Since at the time of publication the 2007 data was not yet complete, an analysis of total waste generation for this year is not being provided.

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