MEPA gives councils €30,000 for car-free day activities

MEPA has allocated €30,000 for 10 local councils and five NGOs, for the hosting of various activities on car-free day.

CEO Johann Buttigieg said MEPA wanted to have an active role to assist local councils to raise awareness on the reduction of carbon emissions.

"When you consider the fact that there are over 300,000 cars in Malta, we hope that such activities take place more often," Buttigieg said.

The chief executive called on the public to make much better use of public transport, saying that the service had improved since its inception.

A committee composed of members of MEPA, the Malta Resources Authority, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, Transport Malta and local councils chose the councils and NGOs that will benefit from the funds.

The councils chosen are Birgu, Kalkara, Floriana, Santa Venera, Attard, Fgura, Dingli, Lija, Mellieha, and Ghajnsielem (Gozo). The NGOs are Friends of the Earth, Anici Band Club Qormi, Inspire, Don Bosco Oratory and Bicycling Advocacy Club.