2024 saw the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) achieving milestones across various environmental sectors, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to sustainability, regulatory practice, and thematic works.

At a glance:

  • In 2024 ERA processed over 20,000 environmental authorisations.
  • Over 4,880 enforcement cases initiated, 1,300 administrative fines issued.
  • 23% reduction in mixed waste (black bags) through waste separation campaign.
  • Malta moves closer to 30% biodiversity target of land designated Special Area of Conservation.

The Environment and Resources Authority processed well over 20,000 applications for environmental authorisations in 2024, with another 15,000 applications from 2024 and previous years determined during the same year. The figures testify to ERA’s continued importance in the vast field of environmental permitting and regulation, ranging from customs clearances of controlled products to operational permits for large industrial installations.

As detailed in its annual report for 2024, which was discussed in the House of Representatives, ERA is mitigating and preventing several environmental impacts and risks from a vast array of activities and operations.

“This is done through sustainable decisions and by integrating key environmental considerations in permits through conditions and approved technical specifications,” said ERA’s Chief Executive Officer, Kevin Mercieca.

With ERA now taking over the resources aspect from the Malta Resources Authority, the Environmental Permitting Unit is now responsible for processing applications for registrations related to groundwater resources and licensing of quarry operation.

The Environmental Permitting Regulations, entered into force earlier on this year, will provide more clarity in prescribing which applications will also be scrutinised by the public. “The regulations are being made to streamline, and for some sectors, replace existing permitting regimes on a multitude of operations, interventions or activities. Additionally, the regulatory scope will be extended to other areas currently unregulated,” Kevin Mercieca said.

Minister for Environment and Energy, Miriam Dalli, praised ERA’s leadership and senior management in a speech to the House of Representatives discussing the annual report.
“They are a dedicated team, united by a common mission to protect the environment and ensure an environmentally sustainable quality of life for all. I thank all ERA’s employees for their dedication in safeguarding and protecting our environment – not only for today, but for future generations. ERA is showing that through sheer will and administrative rigour, we can build sturdy environmental policies.”

Over 4,880 enforcement cases

Through its Compliance and Enforcement arm, ERA investigates complaints and carries out routine inspections on many unpermitted operations harmful to the environment, from illegal dumping to wildlife trafficking. But its monitoring teams also address compliance aspects related to quarries, industrial facilities, marine issues, waste shipments, single-use plastics (SUPs), extended producer responsibility, wildlife crime investigations, activities in protected sites and biodiversity.

This enormous workload in 2024 saw well over 4,880 investigative cases, while having closed 4,238 cases in the same year, including some very complex enforcement cases spanning over multiple years.

Apart from the various enforcement tools adopted, such as Official Warnings, Stop and Compliance Orders and Court proceedings, ERA issued 1,301 administrative fines in 2024. ERA in fact directed substantial efforts and resources to reinforce compliance and enforcement, strategically targeting littering and proper waste disposal practices in Malta and Gozo.

“Our ultimate goal is to remedy environmental harm when possible and ensure that those responsible face appropriate penalties. Embracing our role as an educator, we focused on increasing awareness and compliance with environmental laws, not just with warnings or administrative fines, but also through public campaigns. Notably, we saw a significant increase in the number of fines and warnings issued compared to the previous year, especially in areas like mandatory waste separation. These warnings aim to educate the public before stricter penalties are enforced.” Kevin Mercieca said.

Further progress on implementing the national strategy on waste management, saw a notable 23% reduction in mixed waste in the first year since the introduction of mandatory waste separation regulations.

“In 2025, we look forward to focus on enhancing the management of protected areas, advancing waste separation, and recycling efforts, strengthening compliance and enforcement action, and tackling pollution, particularly through the implementation of new permitting regulation,” Kevin Mercieca said.

New Special Areas of Conservation

 ERA also registered substantial progress in environmental monitoring and plan making, with a new National Strategy on Biodiversity, and a Programme of Measures for the marine environment.  In 2024, ERA also designated new Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) of National Importance, these being Xrobb l-Għaġin, Il-Qortin ta’ Isopu, the Ħondoq ir-Rummien area, il-Ħnejja and Il-Ġebla tal-Fessej – with 13 such national sites, Malta moves closer to its EU biodiversity targets, with almost 30% land designated for protection in Malta.

ERA chairman Vincent Cassar hailed the authority’s commitment to sustainable urban renewal: a significant milestone this year was the inauguration of the regeneration project at Spencer Garden in Marsa, which spans approximately 11 acres.

“This revitalised space has been transformed into a sustainable community hub, integrating solar energy, water filtration and storage systems, and the planting of over 6,000 trees and shrubs. This project reflects our commitment to sustainable urban renewal, ensuring that environmental enhancements directly benefit our communities.”

12 June 2025

Beachgoers reminded to exercise caution around turtle nest, volunteers requested to monitor area

 Turtle nesting season in Malta officially began on Monday, 9 June, when the first nest was found at Ġnejna Bay.

The turtle nest was spotted by a team from the Cleansing Division during routine works. Upon discovery, the finding was reported to Nature Trust Malta (NTM-FEE), which is sponsored by the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) to carry out wildlife rescue and rehabilitation across the Maltese islands.

Both ERA and NTM teams were on site shortly after to cordon off the area to protect the nest.

ERA will be issuing an emergency conservation order to further safeguard the site.

The loggerhead turtle, known in Maltese as il-fekruna l-komuni, is a long-living, slowly maturing marine species that inhabits tropical to warm temperate areas. Classified as globally endangered by the World Conservation Area (IUCN), the species is protected by various national and international laws.

Capturing, killing, taking, and trading these turtles, as well as the deliberate disturbance of these species, particularly during breeding, rearing and migration, is prohibited. The destruction of eggs or taking of eggs from the wild is a criminal offence, with a minimum fine of nearly €500 that goes up to nearly €2,400 for each egg that may be destroyed or taken from the wild.

“Beachgoers who come across a turtle nesting are instructed to keep their distance, and to not approach the turtle. Noise and light are to be kept to a minimum. The public is urged to immediately report any sightings or turtle activity to ERA over the phone (2292 3500) or through its customer care system, or directly to NTM (9999 9505),” said ERA’s Director of Regulatory Affairs, Aimee Brincat.

Turtle nests are monitored 24/7 to ensure their protection. To make this possible, volunteers will be required by NTM with monitoring and other tasks related to this turtle nest.

Those who wish to volunteer are kindly asked to send an email to [email protected] for more information.


What can you do?

 When near the nests:

  • It is important to act responsibly as excessive noise, trampling, and light close to the nesting area may pose a threat to turtle eggs and any hatchlings.


When a turtle/nest is spotted:

  • It is important that any observations of turtle activity to ERA over the phone (2292 3500) or through its customer care system, or directly to NTM (9999 9505).
  • If you come across a turtle nesting, please keep your distance, do not approach the turtle, and keep noise and light to a minimum.


How to help:

  • Turtle nests are monitored 24/7 to ensure their protection, to make this possible, volunteers will be required by NTM with monitoring and other tasks related to this turtle nest.
  • Those who wish to volunteer are kindly asked to send an email to [email protected] for more information.

9 June 2025

Four new categories added to the 2025 edition of the prestigious ERA Awards, a ceremony held under the patronage of President Myriam Spiteri Debono, to celebrate individuals driving meaningful environmental change.

This was announced during a visit to ERA by the President together with the Minister for the Environment Dr Miriam Dalli and Permanent Secretary Joseph Caruana, who were also given a tour of the premises and met with officers from the various departments within the Authority.

ERA CEO Kevin Mercieca provided an overview of the work of the Authority, outlining its growth over the past years, both in terms of numbers and challenges that it has addressed.

Mr. Mercieca, stressed that “We’re focused on ensuring that development and sustainability go hand in hand. Whether we’re carrying out environmental assessments, processing environmental permits, monitoring compliance, or enforcing regulations to protect our natural resources”.

The President commended ERA for its steadfast dedication to confront the challenges posed by environmental protection, especially considering the growing population, and the increased development, construction, and infrastructure. She thanked ERA staff for their dedication and work. “What you do is not just a duty, it’s a legacy – a legacy of environmental stewardship of benefit not only for the present but also future generations.’

The President concluded the visit by announcing ERA has introduced four new categories to the ERA Awards, previously known as the ‘Buonamico Awards’. These new categories will form part of the ERA Awards ceremony taking place later this year, and will complement the existing Buonamico and Special Recognition Awards, which celebrate environmental activism.

“Over the past few years, we’ve made some important changes. ERA has streamlined permitting processes, expanded protected areas, and increased inspections; all to safeguard our natural heritage. A practical example is the transformation of Spencer Garden. Once an underused space, it’s now a vibrant green area that our community can enjoy. In 2024, we planted over 30,000 trees and shrubs across Malta as we keep moving towards greener urban landscape. Our work is built on a simple but important principle; that the environment belongs to all of us. The environment is a Government responsibility but also a responsibility that requires input from businesses, NGOs, and local communities. That’s why the ERA Awards are being broadened with four new categories; to recognise all those who are doing their part,” Minister Dr Miriam Dalli stated.

ERA Chairman, Perit Vincent Cassar, stated that, ‘These Awards shine a spotlight on the exceptional contributions of those who are determinedly working to protect and preserve our natural resources. Through their dedication, innovation, and relentless pursuit of a greener future, together we continue to make progress in our mission to safeguard Malta’s environment.’

The newly introduced Award categories ensue a rebranding exercise undertaken for last year’s Awards, which reflects ERA’s commitment to elevating the ERA Awards into a prominent and prestigious annual event that emphasises the importance of environmental stewardship in today’s world.

The new categories are as follows:

  • The Corporate Award for Environmental Innovation and sustainability – This award recognizes private companies that have implemented innovative initiatives contributing to environmental sustainability, supporting Malta’s national environmental objectives such as air quality, waste management, and biodiversity.
  • The Environmental Stewardship Award for Voluntary Organisations – This category honours projects led by voluntary organizations that serve as stewards of sustainability, through effective community outreach and environmental engagement.
  • The Green Public Leadership Award – This award recognizes public entities that set an example by implementing green practices, including waste reduction and sustainable mobility initiatives.
  • The Green School Scheme – Aimed at educational institutions, this scheme provides funding for projects that instil a culture of sustainability among students, particularly through nature-based eco-projects that foster hands-on environmental learning.

More information on the Awards, together with instructions on how nominations are to be submitted, is available on https://era.org.mt/era-awards/ The nomination period is currently open until 8th June 2025.

7 April

The Ministry for the Environment and the Environment Resources Authority (ERA) have announced a reform in environmental permits, with the new regulations set to be published in the coming days.

During a press briefing led by the Minister for the Environment, Miriam Dalli, and ERA’s Chief Executive Officer, Kevin Mercieca, journalists were given a detailed explanation of the new regulations, which build upon the Environmental Protection Act. The regulations are being published following a public consultation process and an evaluation of the feedback received by the environmental authority.

The new legislation represents a significant step forward in raising environmental standards, with three key objectives:

• Regulating and enforcing higher standards for a range of operations and activities. Some operations and activities will be regulated for the first time.
• Enhancing citizen participation and their right to be involved in the process. The new regulations provide greater clarity on applicable procedures and improved access to justice regarding related decisions.
• Creating a fairer playing field among different operators. Those who invest in higher environmental standards will not be placed at a disadvantage compared to competitors who pay less attention to environmental responsibilities.

Minister Miriam Dalli explained, “Our guiding principle was to ensure greater public involvement in the issuance of environmental permits. We are granting new rights, not just in principle but also in practice. We want to strike a balance between necessary activities carried out sustainably and with respect for public concerns and priorities. ERA will achieve this by enforcing stronger environmental standards in the permitting process.”

The new regulations will lead to several decisions to be taken publicly, as required by law, and these decisions will be published on the Authority’s website. Currently, public consultation is only required for applications related to industrial operations that fall under the Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control (IPPC) category. This will now be expanded to include many other operations and activities listed in the schedules.

Kevin Mercieca, CEO of ERA, stated, “These regulations are a major step forward in environmental protection, fulfilling one of the Authority’s key goals; to establish a strong environmental permitting process that recognizes those who invest in higher environmental standards while also giving citizens the opportunity to fully participate in the process. This is a clear sign of our commitment to strengthening environmental protection.”

The Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) hosted a Seminar on Waste Management which brought together various government entities, stakeholders and Regional and Local Councils. The seminar served as an important platform for discussion, knowledge sharing, and facilitate collaboration, further strengthening ERA’s commitment to environmental sustainability and regulatory compliance.

Building upon the success of previous seminars organised by ERA, the event featured a series of presentations by ERA and invited stakeholders. Notable contributions included the Local Enforcement System Agency (LESA), Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) sharing its role in promoting sustainability within the sector and Community Police emphasizing the importance of community involvement to maintaining cleanliness in local communities. The Koperattiva Għawdxija tal-Indafa Pubblika Limitata (KIP Gozo) was also invited to share their bespoke system as a case of good practice in the collection of waste from Gozitan commercial establishments, most of which operating within the catering industry.

Through the discussions ERA provided various updates on key areas such as ERA’s general functions and responsibilities, while also focussing further on permitting, compliance and enforcement which are key topics in the area of waste management.

Apart from the enforcement action undertaken by the Police and LESA, ERA conducted 5,632 shifts on litter enforcement throughout 2024. These inspections resulted in 1,073 administrative fines for non-compliance to the National Waste Collection Schedule together with 1,014 official warnings for lack of compliance to Mandatory Separation legislation. This represents an increase in the number of litter fines over previous years, indicating the effectiveness of the risk-based approach adopted by ERA towards litter waste enforcement.

Apart from litter enforcement, ERA shared the results attained on other waste illegalities throughout 2024, namely the issuance of 135 fines on waste carriers, 12 fines on waste dumping and 15 fines on incineration of waste.

These statistics exclude the various enforcement actions taken by ERA on other wide ranging environmental responsibilities regulated by the Authority such as, inter alia, enforcement action on facilities requiring an environmental permit, enforcement on the trade of protected species, extended producer responsibility and environmental damage to protected areas, habitat and protected trees.

The seminar provided an invaluable opportunity for local and regional councils to voice their concerns, engage in meaningful dialogue, and contribute to the ongoing improvement of waste management practices. ERA remains committed to fostering collaboration and enhancing waste management strategies through continued outreach and partnerships. ERA looks forward to further strengthening its relationships with stakeholders and continuing to improve waste management efforts in the years ahead.

4 March

Malta to continue safeguarding seas through new EU-funded conservation project

Our country to benefit from €2 million investment

During a press conference, the Environment Ministry and the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) launched a new project, “Marine Conservation – An Inclusive Approach to Managing Marine Resources”, with a total budget of €2.01 million co-financed by EU funds. The aim of the project is to have a healthier marine environment, benefiting families, fishers, and local communities alike.

Minister for the Environment and Energy Miriam Dalli said “Through this project, we are investing in both our environment and our people. Protecting marine habitats and species means safeguarding the livelihoods of those who depend on fishing and tourism, while also ensuring that everyone can continue to enjoy our seas for years to come.”

The Minister continued that by implementing adopted measures and strengthening community outreach, the project seeks to secure Malta’s marine heritage for present and future generations, delivering cleaner waters, healthier marine biodiversity, safeguarding fisheries, and a sustainable advancement in favour of the natural environment.

This project is funded under Malta’s European Maritime Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) 2021-2027. In collaboration with the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Aquatic Resources Malta, Transport Malta, Ambjent Malta, BirdLife Malta, and Nature Trust Malta, this project will focus on five key pillars:

• Sustainable use to balancing economic and recreational activities with the health of marine life.
• Restoration to revive damaged habitats so that marine species can thrive once again.
• Stakeholder engagement to involve fishers, businesses, local communities, and other key stakeholders in shaping the implementation of the conservation measures.
• Capacity building to equip authorities and citizens with the knowledge and resources to protect marine areas effectively.
• Awareness raising to encourage responsible practices and fostering a culture of stewardship for Malta’s coastal waters.

From his end, Kevin Mercieca, ERA CEO said “Through this project we are focusing on the future of our marine environment, in line with ERA’s mission to safeguard the environment for a sustainable quality of life. Our approach will centre on responsible, sustainable use, striving for a future where the needs of society and the environment are in balance.”

More information on this project can be found on https://era.org.mt/projects/emfaf/

21 February 25

The Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) welcomes the significant progress in recycling efforts across Malta in 2023, highlighting positive trends in sustainability and resource recovery.

Data issued by the National Statistics Office shows significant progress in waste treatment and recycling. A total of 2.6 million tonnes of waste were treated, representing a 3.1% increase from 2022. Recycling efforts have been particularly encouraging in facilities located in Malta and abroad with an increase of 7.8% and 12.6%, respectively. Whilst the highest increases were noted for waste from construction and demolition, the most notable decreases came from household waste. The NSO data shows that a nearly 10% reduction in waste from households was registered.

“This is an encouraging sign of how the public is increasingly adopting waste-reduction and proper waste separation practices,” ERA CEO Kevin Mercieca said.

Over 41,000 tonnes of waste were disposed of in 2023 through the civic amenity sites —an increase from the 34,000 tonnes collected in the previous year.

Malta is implementing the Long-Term Waste Management Plan 2021-2030, the key objectives of which include waste reduction, the upgrading of waste management infrastructure, and enhancing recycling while reducing landfill dependency.

In 2023, Malta introduced mandatory waste separation and a unified collection schedule and established differentiated gate fees – all measures which incentivise waste separation and treatment options.

The NSO data also shows that Malta generated nearly 2.9 million tonnes of waste in 2023. This is an improvement compared to the 3.6 million tonne mark recorded in 2019 and 2020.

A key area of focus continues to be construction waste, which accounted for nearly 2.2 million tonnes in 2023. 68% of the material was recycled and 31% was used for backfilling. This marks a yet another significant improvement on recycling over recovery when compared to 2019, where 33% of the material was recycled and 66% was used for backfilling.

In line with the Construction and Demolition Waste Strategy covering 2021-2030, ERA has introduced a new regulatory framework for the management of construction and demolition waste which entered into force by end of 2023. This framework emphasises on waste reduction, proper management, waste separation, the development of secondary markets, and increased recycling efforts for construction and demolition waste.

“With the continued development of waste treatment and recycling infrastructure and the growing participation of citizens in proper waste disposal, Malta is making great strides toward creating a more sustainable and circular economy,” Mr Mercieca concluded.

19 February 2025

Il-Prim Ministru Robert Abela inawgura l-proġett ta’ riġenerazzjoni ta’ Ġnien Spencer fil-Marsa. Ġnien Spencer, żona ta’ madwar 11-il tomna ta’ art, irritornat fi stat mill-isbaħ lill-komunità bħala parti mill-impenn tal-Gvern li jkompli jinvesti fi spazji ħodor u sostenibbli fil-qalba tal-lokalitajiet ta’ pajjiżna.
Fil-fatt, dan il-ġnien riġenerat mill-Awtorità għall-Ambjent u r-Riżorsi, l-ERA, jippromwovi b’mod b’saħħtu l-prinċipju tas-sostenibbiltà fosthom b’sistema tal-ħażna tal-ilma u li fl-istess ħin tiffiltrah. Dan flimkien mat-tħawwil ta’ qrib is-sitt elef arbuxell u sitt elef pjanta oħra flimkien ma’ bosta siġar u sistemi li jiġġeneraw l-elettriku mid-dawl tax-xemx.
Fid-diskors tiegħu, il-Prim Ministru rrimarka s-sodisfazzjon tiegħu għat-tlestija ta’ dan il-proġett fil-qalba tal-Marsa. “Illejla qed nassistu għat-tlestija ta’ proġett f’lokalità li nemmen bis-saħħa fil-potenzjal tagħha. Lokalità li deċiżjonijiet tal-passat kienu iebsa mal-poplu Marsa. Illum kburi bi Gvern li jemmen bis-saħħa fil-Marsa”, irrimarka l-Prim Ministru hekk kif tenna mill-ġdid ir-riġenerazzjoni b’saħħitha li jrid jara f’din il-lokalità u d-deċiżjonijiet importanti li diġà ttieħdu mill-Gvern f’dan ir-rigward, fosthom bl-għeluq tal-power station.
Intant, il-Prim Ministru tenna l-impenn tiegħu li l-Gvern ikompli jagħti prijorità lil proġetti bħal dak ta’ Ġnien Spencer. “Nemmen li rridu naċċelleraw iżjed il-ħidma biex ikollna aktar. Irrid nara aktar bħal Ġnien Spencer. Proġetti oħra li wettaqna bħal dak ta’ Wied Fulija, il-Qortin f’Għawdex u Bengħajsa huma proġetti importanti”, sostna l-Prim Ministru hekk kif spjega wkoll li fil-Budget għas-sena d-dieħla se jiżdied l-investiment biex s-sena d-dieħla jitlestew 19-il proġett ieħor ta’ spazji miftuħa.
“Inħares ’il quddiem biex nara ħafna familji jgawdu dan il-post. Ejja ħalli nibqgħu nżommu dan ir-ritmu b’saħħtu fl-implimentazzjoni ta’ proġetti ambjentali lejn pajjiż ta’ kwalità”, temm jgħid il-Prim Ministru.
Qabel l-inawgurazzjoni tkellmet il-Ministru għall-Ambjent, l-Enerġija u l-Indafa Pubblika Miriam Dalli. “B’dan il-proġett ta’ riġenerazzjoni qed nagħtu nifs ġdid lill-Marsa. Dan il-proġett jissimbolizza l-protezzjoni kontinwa li rridu nagħtu lill-ambjent ta’ madwarna. Ġnien Spencer jirrappreżenta l-impenn tal-ERA li tkompli taħdem u ssaħħaħ il-ħidma tagħha favur il-protezzjoni ambjentali, fil-forom differenti tagħha,” qalet il-Ministru Dalli. “Wegħedna 40,000 metru kwadru ta’ spazji ġodda miftuħa sal-aħħar tas-sena. Dan huwa t-tielet ġnien li qed niftħu f’temp ta’ tlett ijiem. It-tielet ġnien li qed joffri valur miżjud fil-lokalità li jinsab fiha”, temmet tgħid il-Ministru Miriam Dalli.
27 November