Supermarkets could be banned from destroying food

Supermarkets in Malta could no longer be able to destroy or dispose of unsold edible food. The 2016 Budget floats the idea of a Food Waste Bill and government is exploring the idea of proposing a law similar to the one introduced in France this year.

French supermarkets over 400 square metres in size have to enter into formal agreements with food redistribution charities by July 2016. Any food past its sell by date should also be sent for composting, anaerobic digestion or for use as animal feed – rather than disposal. Supermarkets failing to comply will be liable for penalties including fines of up to €75,000 or two years imprisonment.

Private involvement in waste management

Government will be issuing a call for proposals for the collection of plastic bottles and aluminium cans with the aim of identifying a waste collection system by July 2016. These systems could include collection points at supermarkets.

The waste management agency, WasteServ will be looking at farming out the collection of batteries to the private sector. The agency will also kick-off the process of reforming the Civic Amenity sites to analyse the best method to involve the private sector in the management of these sites.

National Park in Marsascala

Marsascala is to have another national park while the Argotti garden and surrounding gardens in Floriana will be transformed into a recreational centre which will serve as a “green lung” in the Grand Harbour area. Government will also be launching a Green Economy strategy plan.