Malta’s Vision for a Sustainable Future: Building Synergies Between Water and Energy

Malta is pursuing a bold course toward sustainability, placing the synergy between water and energy at the heart of its national strategy. This vision was the central focus of the 3rd edition of the Sustainability Networking Conference, hosted by the Energy and Water Agency (EWA), under the theme “Building Synergies between Water and Energy for Sustainable Solutions”.

SMEs and the Sustainability Journey

Recent research presented at the conference shows that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Malta are increasingly prioritizing energy and water reduction as part of their sustainability transition. However, most SMEs are still in the early stages of this journey. The findings, led by Dr. Alex Mifsud and Dr. Muhammad Mazhar, assessed current practices, challenges, and enablers, and will guide EWA’s future support—especially for micro and small businesses. The focus will be on sector-specific innovation and promoting behavioural change through employee training, knowledge sharing, and expert guidance.

Conference Highlights and Collaboration

This year’s conference, aligned with the LIFE Integrated Project, explored four key areas:

• The energy-water nexus

• Challenges in the workplace

• Solutions through case studies of successful sustainable models

• Encouraging behavioural change in the workplace

Minister for the Environment, Energy and Public Cleanliness, Miriam Dalli, emphasized that building synergies between energy and water unlocks efficiencies, conserves resources, reduces environmental impact, and enhances resilience. She highlighted the pivotal role of the private sector in this transition. A diverse panel of local and international speakers—including representatives from the Malta Chamber of Commerce, University of Malta, Corinthia Group, Water Services Corporation, and Working Town—shared insights from their sectors and discussed strategies to improve Malta’s sustainability landscape. Interactive workshops allowed participants to share ideas, discuss challenges, and showcase successful models, reinforcing the importance of collaboration and behavioural change at every level of the workplace.

Malta Vision 2050 and Long-Term Goals

The conference also spotlighted Malta Vision 2050, a strategic blueprint for the next 25 years. This vision aims to secure a high quality of life for all by prioritizing sustainability, resilience, and environmental stewardship.

Ongoing Training and Impact

Running parallel to the conference is EWA’s long-standing Sustainability Training initiative, which has delivered over 200 hours of training to 55 government entities and companies, engaging more than 700 participants in the drive toward a more sustainable Malta.

Looking Ahead

EWA’s commitment is clear: to continue supporting both SMEs and large corporations in adopting sustainable practices that lower environmental impact and drive economic benefits. Through research, innovation, and collaboration, Malta is building a greener, more resilient future—one where every sector and every individual can play a part.

Presentations from the conference are available for those interested in exploring the detailed discussions and solutions shared during this landmark event. Click here.