Environmental non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Malta have renewed their appeal to the government to withdraw the contentious planning reform bills that would grant the Planning Authority unprecedented powers. The NGOs warn that these reforms would have disastrous consequences for the environment and natural habitats if implemented. This call to action comes ahead of a national protest scheduled for Saturday, where citizens will voice their opposition to the proposed reforms.
The proposed planning reforms have sparked widespread criticism from environmental groups, who argue that they would undermine environmental protection laws and threaten the country’s natural beauty. The NGOs are concerned that the Planning Authority’s increased powers would lead to unchecked development and degradation of Malta’s environment.
The NGOs’ concerns are echoed by similar debates in other countries, such as the UK, where environmental charities have warned that proposed planning reforms would weaken environmental protections and threaten nature recovery. These charities have called on the government to prioritize environmental protection and ensure that planning decisions deliver positive change for nature and growth hand-in-hand.
In Malta, the Nationalist Party has taken a different approach, tabling a bill to enshrine the right to a healthy environment in the country’s Constitution. This move aims to provide a robust framework for environmental conservation and protection in Malta.
