Malta’s Sustainable Development Vision for 2050.

Malta’s Sustainable Development Vision is a national multi sectoral vision that represent a key step for the development of a new Sustainable Development Strategy for the Maltese Islands for 2050, which is one of the priorities of the Maltese Government.
Malta’s Sustainable Development Vision for 2050 is set to become the main guiding principle for Malta, for developing policies and planning and implementing projects. Malta’s future economic growth depends on the transition towards an economic model inspired by the principles of circular, green and blue economy, stimulated by a high level of competitiveness and innovativeness. The new development paradigm will reduce the negative impacts on the environment by closing the loop between consumption and production, reduce the consumption of raw materials and disposal of waste, enhance human development and achieve a high level of social inclusion. This will enable the maximisation of sustainable development in its three dimensions – economic, social and environmental – in a balanced and integrated manner. This economic model will be achieved through: 1. Sustainable consumption and production models in order to achieve a circular economy: 2. The transition towards a low-carbon emission economy; 3. Sustainable mobility; 4. The transition towards a digital economy; 5. The creation of high-skilled and high value-added jobs; 6. Increased investments in research and innovation.
The sustainable management, preservation and conservation of land and maritime natural resources are crucial for long-term healthy living environment and food production, as well as sustainable economic activities. The integration of these objectives into sectoral policies and programmes, including the construction industry, energy, agriculture and fisheries industries and service sectors such as tourism, is therefore crucial. The vision for 2050 is to enhance the sustainability and resilience of communities and territories through enhanced green infrastructure; protecting landscapes as well as biodiversity; and the secure and sufficient supply of low-carbon energy and water resources. This will be achieved through: 1. Transition towards Low-carbon Energy; 2.Sustainable Buildings and Urban Development; 3. Protecting, conserving and enhancing natural capital.
Aquaculture presents specific challenges such as the environmental impact of aquaculture activities. For the industry to perform and grow sustainably, the key challenge for is that of improving operational management in such a way as to enhance efficiency, reduce environmental impacts and promote competitiveness. Government’s vision for sustainable fisheries and aquaculture is based on four main pillars of development: 1. improved regulation; 2. improved operation; 3. improved environmental monitoring, and 4. enhanced innovation.
Agricultural practices need to maximise the use of available land while minimising damage to the natural resources, including water, soil and biodiversity, in order to meet growing needs determined by a growing population.
Social economy needs to be also strengthened by stimulating the development of human potential, reducing social and wealth distribution inequalities, promoting inclusive labour and education policies, as well as eradicating labour exploitation. Efficient and accessible healthcare and basic services must also be ensured in order to achieve a higher quality of life. To this end Government will: 1. Combat poverty and social exclusion; 2. Provide the conditions for the development of human potential, through inclusive labour market and education and training; 3. Ensure good health and wellbeing Build safe and integrated communities.
Government has primary responsibility to realise Malta’s Vision. Strong and effective governance arrangements are a key element to ensure successful implementation given the extensive and cross-cutting nature of sustainable development. The Sustainable Development Directorate within the Ministry for the Environment, Sustainable Development and Climate Change (MESDC) has overall responsibility for promoting sustainable development, and for overseeing its coherent implementation. However, ownership by the various Local Councils also have a crucial role to play in translating national polices into tangible practical actions. Sustainable development also calls for consensus from diverse sectors of the Maltese society, including civil society and the private sector.