The government is preparing regulations aimed at protecting third parties and third party property during construction works.
These will be part of a phased implementation of regulations related to building construction over the coming months, George Pullicino, Minister for Resources and Rural Affairs, told a seminar organised by the Chamber of Architects today.
The seminar is discussing energy efficiency.
Mr Pullicino said that as a member of the European Union, Malta was committed to reducing its CO2 emissions by 20% by 2020, and committed to ensuring that 10% of its energy is generated from alternative sources by 2010. By January 2009, Malta must also introduce a system of certification regarding the energy performance of buildings as well as certification of boilers and air conditioning equipment.
He said that an effective educational campaign was needed, targeting professionals who design buildings and mechanical and electrical apparatus, contractors and builders, real estate/property negotiators, as well as the general public.
The minister said the country also needed to create a system to ensure that laws and regulations were implemented, monitored, and that their enforcement took place in a sound and efficient manner, that did not give rise to unnecessary bureaucratic measures.