VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Malta remains at significant risk of failing to meet its legally binding 2030 nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions target, according to updated government projections published in the Environment and Resources Authority’s revised National Air Pollution Control Programme (NAPCP).

The draft programme, issued for public consultation in June 2026, shows Malta is on track to meet all other major pollutant ceilings, but NOx is projected to exceed the 2030 limit.

Under the current “With Measures” scenario, NOx emissions are forecast to reach 3.88 kilotonnes by 2030, almost double the legal ceiling of 1.98 kilotonnes. Even the more ambitious “With Additional Measures” scenario falls short of compliance.

Road transport remains the largest source of NOx pollution, accounting for 42.6% of national emissions in 2023, followed by maritime activity at 15.5%.

The government’s response focuses on incentive-based policies under the “Reshaping Our Mobility” strategy, including grants for residents who give up car ownership, financial support for young scooter users, off-peak transport initiatives and cleaner maritime infrastructure.

Despite these proposals, the NAPCP acknowledges that achieving the 2030 target remains uncertain.

Malta is also seeking flexibility under the EU’s National Emission Ceilings Directive by following a non-linear emissions reduction path, arguing that a strict annual reduction trajectory would place an excessive financial burden on low- and middle-income households.

The programme concludes that while the revised approach aims to balance environmental obligations with socio-economic concerns, compliance with the 2030 NOx target cannot be guaranteed.

– Photo Pexels –
(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews