Switch, a campaign for the better use of energy, was launched in Great Siege Square, Valletta this morning by Resources Minister George Pullicino and Information parliamentary secretary Chris Said.

The campaign’s message is to address three crucial points - the what, why and with what. It is calling on families to join the government in doing their part for the environment.

Dr Said that the“what”, for example, was essential because there was a lot of confusion in what was meant by reducing energy use and making better use of energy.

Efficiency was to continue doing the same things but wasting less energy. The television, for example wasted 25 per cent energy when left of stand-by so should be turned off completely.

Mr Pullicino said that efficient use of energy also benefitted the environment so should be integrated in a holistic plan of sustainable development.

Switch was so called because a change towards better use of energy required a change in mentality.

As part of the campaign, the government will be distributing a booklet with a number of initiatives in favour of efficient energy use.

In this booklet, seven Maltese personalities, namely Pablo Micallef, Eileen Montesin, John Bundy, Tony Camilleri, Chrysander Agius, Alfred Zammit and Louise Tedesco say what changes they have made in their home, car or office to save energy. Promotional spots on television are also being shown.

The campaign forms part of a chain of initiatives and measures being taken by the government in favour of sustainable development and to address climate change.

A public consultation period on the draft national strategy for policy measures to reduce greenhouse gases and on solid waste were already being undertaken.