Some of Malta’s leading businessmen, banks and stakeholders joined the discussion on sustainable enterprises, explaining that the transition has already started.
During a conference organised jointly between the Ministry for Energy, Enterprise and Sustainable Development and the European Commission Representation in Malta, the aspects discussed were: how to reach sustainable enterprises, how blue and green projects can drive innovative business ideas, and how integrating ESG in business and investment decisions leads to more attractive businesses.
“Decarbonising our economy by 2050 may sound too far away for some, but truth is that we need to plan ahead and make sure that we are investing in the right direction as of today. Our vision for Malta and Gozo is ambitious but it needs to happen, in partnership with all stakeholders. Malta is steadfast on setting as our ultimate aim the achievement of a carbon neutral economy”, Minister for Energy, Enterprise and Sustainable Development Miriam Dalli told the conference.
The panelists delved into the fact that enterprises need to become more sustainable and how their companies have embarked on this transition. Attendees concurred that real change comes from a change in culture, with the support of public funds, EU funds and, more importantly, unlocking private capital.
Among the speakers was keynote speaker and former member of the European Commission Karmenu Vella, who highlighted how the blue economy opened up opportunities that Malta could tap into and help expand the country’s vision.
On his part, Kestutis Sadauskas, the Director for Circular Economy and Green Growth at the European Commission, stressed that it was far more expensive to clean up the mess, than avoid generating it. “The good news: with more sustainability, more profits can be made. Reducing our dependence on raw materials makes us less vulnerable. Sustainability and the circular economy are the way to go.”
Photo: DOI/MESD
