The Maltese islands want to become greener and more sustainable. That will not be easy. Malta is one of the most densely populated countries in Europe, with limited land, growing traffic and strong dependence on imported energy. Still, the country has started taking clear steps towards a cleaner future.
Sustainable mobility: electric buses and cleaner transport
Public transport in Malta has changed significantly in recent years. Dozens of fully electric buses already operate across Malta and Gozo. In 2025, smaller 9-metre electric buses were introduced, better suited for narrow village roads and tighter urban areas.
Malta is also exploring self-driving electric buses to see how public transport can become even more efficient and environmentally friendly.
Cleaner transport is not limited to roads. In Valletta’s harbour, pollution is also being reduced. Cruise ships staying in port will soon receive electricity directly from land. This means they no longer need to keep engines running, helping reduce harmful air pollution in the city.
Project Green: more liveable spaces
One of Malta’s biggest environmental initiatives is Project Green, created to improve public spaces and bring more nature back into urban areas. The goal is simple: greener towns, stronger biodiversity and more liveable surroundings.
Several major projects are already planned.
In Fgura, a District Park of more than 50,000 m² will include walking paths, cycling routes, sports areas, playgrounds and green open space. The project is designed together with residents so it better matches local needs.
On Manoel Island, large-scale building plans were stopped. Instead, the island is planned to become a national park, where nature and heritage will take priority.
Across other towns and villages, public squares, gardens and streets are also being redesigned with more trees and greener infrastructure.
Clean-up campaigns and less waste
Waste remains a major challenge for Malta due to limited land and processing capacity. Because of this, stronger clean-up efforts have become essential.
Since 2020, the annual Islands Cleanup has helped remove waste from beaches, valleys and coastal areas, often supported by local volunteers.
The results have already been visible.
In 2022 alone, more than 2,000 tons of waste were collected. For every ton removed, two trees were planted. That led to over 4,000 new trees being planted across the islands.
The goal goes beyond cleaning public spaces. Malta also wants to restore natural areas and improve long-term environmental health.
Energy and climate goals
Malta aims for 25% of its energy to come from renewable sources by 2030, including solar energy and cleaner storage solutions.
To support this, the government offers:
- subsidies for electric vehicles and charging points
- support for solar energy projects
- funding for battery storage systems
- incentives for homes and businesses to reduce energy waste
Valletta has set an even bigger target. The capital aims to become climate neutral by 2050. For a small island nation, this is ambitious but increasingly important.
Challenges ahead
The road to greener islands still comes with serious challenges.
Land remains limited, making large solar or wind parks difficult to build. Malta also depends heavily on imports such as energy, food and construction materials. Since much of this arrives by ship or plane, transport continues to create environmental pressure.
Infrastructure also needs improvement. More charging points and better energy storage systems are still needed.
Another challenge is behaviour. Malta has a strong car culture. Encouraging more people to use buses, walking routes or alternative transport will take time.
Explore Malta in a smarter way
If you want to discover Malta while making more conscious travel choices, HelloMalta offers ways to explore the islands more responsibly. From walking tours and bus tours to boat trips around Gozo and Comino, visitors can enjoy Malta while discovering its natural beauty in a more thoughtful way.