The Isle of MTV concert this evening is expected to produce more than 18 tons of waste, which will be sorted through and recycled for the first time.
We are being more conscious of our environmental responsibilities
The scheme was unveiled by Tourism Minister Karmenu Vella yesterday during a tour of the tailor-made stage in Floriana, host to one of the biggest concerts of the year.
“This year, we are being more conscious of our environmental responsibilities, especially our carbon footprint,” Mr Vella said.
MTV project producer Jane Fraser said: “Loads of rubbish is hauled away from the Floriana granaries where, for the past seven years, the event has been held.
“This year, a new scheme will see much of the waste sorted through and recycled at Sant’Antnin recycling plant.”
The recycling incentive forms part of a corporate social responsibility scheme that will see waste management company Wasteserv and the planning authority coordinate an extensive clean up of the area surrounding the granaries with the MTV crew the day after the event.
The scheme will introduce the event’s first official T-shirts. The shirts, designed by local artists, will cost €10 and all proceeds will be donated to YMCA.
Other fundraising initiatives included an auction of paintings of last year’s concert, where some €2,500 were raised and donated to YMCA last week.
Ms Fraser said the event was expected to outdo previous editions. “This year will attract over 50,000 people. The stage is bigger, the acts are bigger. It’s definitely one not to miss” she said.
Afro Jack will close this year’s show following performances by international superstars Rita Ora, dance collective Rudimental and Jessie J.
Driving to Isle of MTV?
Changes will take place in the traffic flow ease congestion.
• Sarria Street, Pietà will be closed to buses from 5pm onwards.
• Traffic from Marina Street, Pietà, towards Floriana will be diverted through Independence Street, Pietà.
• Sa Maison Road and Hay Wharf will be open to one-way traffic from Floriana.
• Great Siege Road, Floriana will be closed and the car park adjacent to the Phoenicia Hotel will be cleared from 1pm onwards.