Around two million plastic bottles are going to be reduced yearly, thanks to the initiative by the Water Services Corporation, where hundreds of water dispensers were installed in various locations, such as public schools and Mater Dei Hospital.
Up till now, more than 300 dispensers have been installed. By the end of this year, another 210 water dispensers will be installed. At Mater Dei Hospital, 115 water dispensers have been installed for public use, free of charge. It has been estimated that from Mater Dei Hospital only, over 711,000 plastic bottles have been reduced.
Minister for the Environment, Energy and Enterprise, Miriam Dalli and Minister for Education, Sport, Youth, Research, and Innovation Clifton Grima praised this initiative as one to leave a positive impact both on health and the environment.
These water dispensers work automatically. One places the water bottle in the dispenser, and it is filled up automatically, thus reducing the spreading of germs.
“This initiative aims to encourage the use of reusable water bottles while offering high-quality water. Such investment translates into two million plastic bottles less each year while encouraging the public to drink more water for health benefits,” explained Minister Dalli.
Minister Clifton Grima said that this initiative is another collaboration with the Ministry for the Environment, Energy, and Enterprise, whereby education, children’s health, and environmental awareness are at the centre of such an initiative.
“From a young age, children need to be taught how to take care of themselves, and this is being done through various initiatives, such as education on the food and drink consumption as well on the importance of more physical activity,” said Minister Grima.
This project is part of ongoing projects by WSC to continue offering quality service to its customers. In the meantime, WSC continuously works to enhance the quality of tap water around the Maltese islands.
The CEO of WSC, Karl Cilia, and St Benedict’s College Principal, Roberta Argento, were also present for this visit at St. Benedict’s College – Secondary School.
