I am writing to express my views on two issues that could really benefit this country if changed. In fairness I have to say I am a Canadian, so I acknowledge that the circumstances which occur here are somewhat different. Please take this not as a judgement but as a suggestion.

First, the buses belch exhaust. It seems to me that one could keep the originality of the unique buses here in Malta but consider overhauling their motors with something a bit more environment-friendly. With the hills, power is a must, so maybe hybrid might be an alternative. It would be a nice change, since being enveloped in emissions several times takes away from the experience of visiting this beautiful island country.

Secondly, what about instituting a composting programme? In my home town we are trying it for the first time on a trial basis... the city provides biodegradable bags to put the waste in, then collects them once a week. It is then made into fertile soil additive and recycled into people's lawns and farming uses. I was thinking that with lack of good soil on the islands here due to wind and shallow bedrock it might be a programme that would have real benefit. We have found that approximately 60 per cent of our household waste is compostable, so it would also save money in rubbish processing.

Just a couple of thoughts, for what they're worth, that may or may not be practical but would certainly benefit the citizens of this country.