During Gozo Week of this year, GUG conducted a questionnaire to further the work which was done during the European week for waste reduction (EWWR). 68 students participated, 95% of which were Gozitan, most of whom reside in Msida during the week.
Most of the respondents described the environment as being everything that surrounds us, built and natural alike. All of the responses received are detailed below, GUG said that it wishes to thank everyone who participated and also the Msida Local Council for sponsoring this activity.
When questioned about what can be done individually, respondents mentioned turning off electrical equipment when not in use and switching off plugs. From the 3 R’s, most participants considered reducing as the most important action, since it eliminates the problem of waste at its source. An example is not to buy or cook more food than needed. Recycling, although also important, is done after reusing is no longer possible. These measures save the environment, and your bank account!
There was a general feeling that awareness about the environment, especially changes caused by human action, is lacking within the general population. So, how can this be changed? Education should be a must, not just in schools, but for the general population. What about doing tv promos for photographic competitions involving Maltese flora?
Respondents felt that environmental land is being irresponsibly sacrificed to boost the construction economy, with too much construction still being done in a country with arguably one of the largest built environment percentages. The solution? According to respondents, there are too many abandoned houses around the islands, why not make the process easier for prospective residents to rehabilitate these houses?
When asked about what to be done to maintain cleaner air, most mentioned improving public transport, making it easier for people to choose these instead of their private cars, and also more incentives and promotions for the use of clean, renewable energy. About water conservation, reducing water consumption, and building of household wells to preserve rainwater were the most mentioned suggestions.
Local councils can also bolster their role in the environment by organizing clean ups and plant a tree campaigns and working with flat block owners to invest in renewable energy sources such as solar panels.
1 Comment To "University Students voice their opinions on the environment in Gozo and Malta"
#1 Comment By Sarah Springham On May 4, 2014 @ 3:49 pm
It’s great to see such interest amongst the student population, and the comments about derelict properties being made available for restoration is particularly noteworthy considering the limited amount of land available on the Maltese islands. These properties are mostly an eyesore and are potentially dangerous. They also lend an air of neglect to the place. Cannot the Government introduce compulsory purchase orders on these properties, list those that are worthy of preservation, and put all of them out to auction to enable local people to purchase them. Grants could be made available to help pay to make them habitable again.