Malta is already playing its part in climate change by closing off the Marsa power station, Prime Minister Joseph Muscat said.

The government had also chosen to fuel the Delimara power station through gas rather than oil - decisions which would make a big difference to the Maltese for years to come.

He was speaking to reporters as Malta joined 170 countries to sign the Paris Agreement on climate change, bringing the deal a step closer towards coming into force years ahead of schedule.

Still, there was still a lot to do to reduce traffic emissions and to provide more incentives to use more environmentally-friendly cars. 

"Malta is making a small contribution but it's very important... This agreement will make a difference to our children - this is no cliche but a reality," Dr Muscat said.

He pointed out that Maltese farmers will be assisted to make up for the shortfall of rain this winter.