The government should take action to stop the release of balloons into the air, as one of many initiatives in favour of the environment, the Church’s Interdiocesan Environmental Commission said.

It noted that a number of entities – including Puttinu Cares and the Qormi San Ġorġ feast organisers – had pledged not to continue with this practice.

It also praised social media sites which promoted unwanted items to find a new home.

The Church's Interdiocesan Environmental Commission issued its statement to mark the month dedicated to creation, celebrated between September 1 and October 4 – the feast of St Francis of Assisi.

It said it was very easy to criticise others and to focus on the negative, as well as on what remained to be done. However, quoting Pope Francis, the commission said that even when the authorities failed to do their duty, people could still do their bit to look after the community, which has been neglected for some time.

Pope Francis has dedicated this year’s event to protecting water and the sea. The commission focussed on the concepts of reducing waste, recycling and reuse.