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