Malta has a serious air quality problem. Air pollution by particulates and ozone lead to asthma, chronic bronchitis and the stunting of lung development in growing children.
Particulates or fine, largely invisible, particles of soot which are emitted especially by diesel engines are the cause of more frequent admissions to hospital for lung or heart disorders.
For the third time in 11 years a substantial number of new buses are about to be purchased. This time we should ensure that our new buses run on gas, which is much cleaner burning, instead of diesel.
The replacement of large numbers of buses in 2003 and 2011 were tragic missed opportunities. I hope that past mistakes are not repeated.