Malta has had difficulty in complying with the acceptable level of pollution for fine dust since 2004 and is still experiencing problems up to this date. The EU Directive, which regulates fine dust, allows member states to exceed the acceptable level of fine dust monitored over one day for 35 days in one year. Malta has exceeded this limit.

All member states had to achieve this acceptable level of pollution by January 1, 2005. To this effect, Mepa is in the process of preparing an air quality plan and has launched a public consultation which consists of a two-phased process. This first phase is involving the general public and stakeholders in the drafting of the air quality plan, while the second will involve the receipt of comments on the draft plan compiled by Mepa.

Man-made sources of fine dust are transport, construction, power generation and small industry. Which of the above sector/s do you think should be given priority in contributing to measures for the improvement of air quality?

Fine dust is considered one of Malta's most significant air pollutants, the concentrations of which exceed EU standards in specific areas.

Mepa is inviting the general public, local councils, NGOs and government entities to suggest realistic policy measures that will help contribute towards decreasing and limiting concentrations of fine dust in ambient air.

Submissions by the public or other interested parties can be sent by e-mail at: airqualityplan@mepa.org.mt.

All submissions need to reach the Authority by Friday.