Palumbo gets one-time grit blasting permit

The Environment Protection Directorate within the Malta Environment and Planning Authority has revised the stop notice issued to Palumbo Shipyard to allow grit blasting for a single incoming vessel, subject to strict conditions to mitigate environmental impacts.

The stop notice had been issued on December 29 after complaints were received by the authority, and the operator had been requested to propose mitigating measures to be adopted during blasting operations.

Mepa said in a statement it has reviewed the proposals for the environmental management of grit blasting operations, which include the restriction of blasting to dock 6, furthest away from the residential areas.

Other measures refer to the manner in which the process of grit blasting is to be managed. Palumbo Shipyard is also utilising other forms of blasting, such as slurry blasting, whenever possible, as well as evaluating improved and alternative technologies

Palumbo Shipyard has, in the meantime, submitted an application for an environmental permit, which is being evaluated.

Mepa said that the proposed measures will be monitored during the blasting operation planned for this month.

Following the operations, Mepa shall be confirming whether the measures are adequate, and whether further measures are required, and which shall also be subject to public consultation.

The authority said it appreciated the cooperation shown by Palumbo in the matter, and it would continue discussions regarding further investment in technologies that would result in the improvement of their environmental performance.