‘Eco-contribution should be abolished’ – Malta Chamber

The Malta Chamber welcomed environment minister Leo Brincat's willingness to listen to its views on a number of issues, including the eco-contribution, waste packaging, waste electrical and electronic equipment, the role of Wasteserv, landfill fees, MEPA, green jobs, energy efficient buildings and emission trading schemes.

During a meeting between Brincat and the Malta Chamber President David G. Curmi accompanied by representatives of the Malta Chamber's Energy and Environment Committee, the minister acknowledged the role of the chamber as a principal stakeholder in the representation of business, for consultation purposes with his ministry.

On eco-contribution, Curmi said that "this was clearly not functioning and neither was it serving its intended purpose in terms of businesses' environmental obligations.

The Malta Chamber president called for the removal of this tax in favour of participation in waste management schemes.

"The loss of revenue from eco-contribution could be neutralised by efficiency gains resulting from future private sector involvement within the country's waste management strategy."

He pledged the chamber's full cooperation to the ministry to ensure workable schemes for its members and which should also cover electric and electronic products and batteries.

"At the same time, the Malta Chamber shall also be insisting for the immediate resolution of outstanding refunds on packaging waste related to 2009 and 2010."

During the meeting, the minister also announced that a comprehensive study has been commissioned on various aspects related to Wasteserv's operations.

Both sides expressed their commitment towards open discussions on the future of Wasteserv once the conclusions of the study are made known.