A holistic action plan to identify key strategic measures which are needed to improve air quality is being launched by the Malta Environment and Planning Authority.

Over the past years, Mepa has studied and monitored air quality and identified particulate matter in the ambient air as the major problem that needed to be addressed.

Local data showed that the highest amount of excesses occurred in areas influenced by heavy traffic, while lower levels were registered in urban and industrial sites. Research showed that high levels of particulate matter left negative implications on human health and the environment.

In compliance with EU legislation, member states were required to submit an air quality plan outlining measures for the reduction of particulate matter in ambient air, to achieve the limit values outlined in an EU directive.

The plan would look at measures to curb pollution focusing especially on the transport sector, which was the main contributor to air pollution.

Mepa said that this exercise was the first of a two-phased consultation process. This first phase would involving the public and stakeholders in the drafting of the air quality plan, while the second would involve the receipt of comments on the draft plan compiled by MEPA.

Submissions by the public or other interested parties can be sent to:

Director of Environment Protection

Ref: Air Quality Plan

Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA)

P.O. Box 200, Marsa, MRS 1000

Or by email at: airqualityplan@mepa.org.mt.

Submissions are to be received by May 22.