VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS) – The Environment and Resources Authority has opened a public consultation to guide the development of Malta’s first National Food Waste Prevention Programme, with submissions accepted until 12 December 2025. The initiative seeks input from households, businesses, and civil-society organisations, focusing on practical measures to reduce waste across the full supply chain.
ERA is calling for proposals ranging from improved supply-chain coordination and food-donation systems to digital tools that help track surplus food and reduce spoilage. Submissions may include case studies, research, or pilot projects already tested in Malta. Ideas can be submitted via publicconsultation.gov.mt or by email to [email protected].
The initiative supports new EU obligations introduced under the revised Waste Framework Directive, which requires member states to cut food waste by 10% in processing and manufacturing and by 30% per capita at retail, hospitality, and household levels by 2030. The directive also compels states to adopt common monitoring standards and promote behavioural change.
Malta faces particular challenges due to high consumption patterns and tourism pressure. National data for 2022 show 86,295 tonnes of food waste, with 53% coming from households and 31% from restaurants and catering. Studies indicate tourists generate nearly twice as much municipal waste as residents, much of it food-related.
Authorities say reducing waste can ease pressure on landfills, support food security, and contribute to climate goals. Food donation remains a key area flagged for improvement, alongside clearer food-date labelling and consumer-awareness campaigns.
– Photo IPA Agency –
(ITALPRESS).
