Today, World Environment Day, is an opportunity to reflect on what's still to be done in order that our country's endeavours are more compatible with the eco-system of which we form part.

AD considers that it is very positive that when the President addressed Malta's Parliament recently during its inaugural session he identified sustainable development as the foundation on which all government action in its current 5 year term will be based.

In times of progress everyone moves forward but in times of difficulty everyone is called to shoulder his or her share. On World Environment Day it is imperative that we understand that progress is not only measured through economic instruments but also through a better appreciation and protection of the environment as well as through Malta's social development. The social and environmental problems which we face so often are the result of an economic system which many a time is left to its whims. It is hence necessary that environmental, economic and social impacts of all decisions are taken into consideration at the drawing board stage and not after some action or policy has already been implemented. This would ensure progress on all fronts, economic, social and environmental such that we would be truly on the path of sustainable development.

In our endeavours to address the environmental deficit which has been permitted to accumulate over the years we should ensue that together we address what really caused this deficit. We expect that all distance themselves from rhetoric and move on to concrete action. The environment needs to be dealt with in a manner similar to the financial sector : it needs to be out of reach of partisan politics.

The reform of MEPA, the production of energy from alternative and renewable sources, a better use of the limited natural resources which we possess, protection of biodiversity, a sustainable transport policy (even within the context of the reform of car registration tax), reform of the surcharge intended to benefit those who engage in energy saving measures, are some of the issues which during the forthcoming year will be on the forefront of environmental political debate in this country.

Government gave a very clear and positive message when it recently withdrew the application for the demolition and redevelopment of the PBS studios site at G'Mangia. Whilst it was correct for this planning application to be withdrawn it is necessary that in future such a positive decision is taken immediately by not submitting the application in the first place. This could be done if those selected by government to administer public property and implement government policy are environmentally sensitive. This has not unfortunately been the norm to date.

Alternattiva Demokratika hopes that the various declarations made during the past months in favour of a more proactive environmental policy are the result of conviction. AD is prepared to cooperate in order to ensure that rhetoric is translated into concrete action in the shortest possible time.

Carmel Cacopardo - AD Spokesperson on Sustainable Development