Most Maltese think the quality of the air has deteriorated substantially over the past decade and that more has to be done to address the problem, a study has found.

The Eurobarometer survey on air quality, published in Brussels yesterday, also shows the majority think renewable energy and not the use of fossil fuels is the key to improve air quality in coming years.

The survey was conducted in Malta by Misco last September among a sample of 502 people.

Transport, particularly emissions from trucks and cars, seems to be the main worry when it comes to poor air quality.

Almost all respondents, 99 per cent, said that Malta had too much traffic and this was contributing towards a deteriorating air quality.

Then, there were emissions from power stations, mentioned by 92 per cent of respondents.

Until a few years ago, air quality was not measured. Through EU funds, air quality monitoring stations were placed around the country and the fuel firing the power stations was changed to one having lower sulphur content to reduce toxic emissions.

Still, for 63 per cent of respondents, Malta is not doing enough to improve air quality.

Asked whether air quality could be a cause of more respiratory illnesses, 91 per cent of respondents agreed. And 94 per cent also mentioned asthma as another problem connected with air pollution.

Despite the political debate on whether energy production should be based on gas rather than oil, both fossil fuels, the majority think renewable energy is the real answer. Fifty-two per cent said Malta must invest heavily in renewable energy, particularly solar and wind, in the next 30 years.

Another eight per cent called for investment in nuclear energy.