A 2008 survey on people's attitude to the environment found that the people's top concern was air quality, Mepa chairman Austin Walker said today.

Speaking at a press briefing, he said that it was interesting that since the last two surveys were held in 1999 and 1989, concerns had changed from waste (1999) and land use (1989).

The survey sample was of 1,042 persons.

The top three environmental problems were found to be air quality (70% from 52% in 1999) followed by waste and land use.

89 per cent agreed that car use should be restricted if air quality deteriorated and caused problems, and 85 per cent said there should be stricter vehicle tests.

Yet, only 55 per cent of people felt air quality harmed their health.

84 per cent agreed that climate change had an impact on Malta and 74 per cent were prepared to invest in energy efficient equipment. 67 per cent said they were prepared to pay a little more (than the rates in 2008) for electricity generated from renewable sources.

84 per cent felt that Malta was too built up. Just over half -- 51% disagreed that buildings should be higher.

A majority of respondents felt that the biggest level of protection should be accorded to Valletta, Buskett, Mdina and Sliema.

The report can be found on the pdf below.