How much are voluntary environmental schemes used in Malta?

Voluntary environmental schemes provide a means whereby organisations may voluntarily improve their environmental performance and apply for certification, based on agreed environmental standards.

In 2007 the same six companies as in 2006 were ISO 14001 certified, these being: Elepac Ltd., General Soft Drinks, Methode Electronics, Trelleborg, Baxter and ST Microelectronics, while the latter is also the only EMAS-registered site. Furthermore, in 2002, the Malta Tourism Authority developed a tourism eco-certification scheme, and as at end 2007 13 hotels were Eco-certified, down from 21 in 2005.[1]

This decline was partly due to the introduction of more stringent criteria and three of the certified hotels ceasing operation.

In 2007, Hilton Malta remained the only company in the Islands that has been awarded the European eco-label.

The Green Office Label - a certification scheme launched by the Government in 2006, has led to the installation of grid connected photovoltaic generation units and office waste separation banks in government ministries, departments and agencies.

In 2007, the Green Public Procurement action plan for the period 2007-2009 was finalised, aiming to green 50 per cent of government procurement by 2009.

Environmental tip: Transform your company into a more environmental-friendly one by obtaining certification in a environmental management scheme

[1] Audits are carried out at 2 year intervals.