Bil-Malti: https://minatolu.com/2018/12/22/pr-22-12-2018-mt/
Mina Tolu, Alternattiva Demokratika (AD) candidate for the European Parliament and AD Chairperson Carmel Cacopardo, also a candidate for the European Parliament, addressed the press at the end of the public Climate Change protest organised by Alternattiva Demokratika Żgħażagħ – Malta Green Youth in Valletta.
Mina Tolu outlined the demands of the ADŻ which reflect those being made at a European level by Green parties as well as various Green MEPs. Mina said “Scientists estimate that we have just twelve years left in which to reverse the impacts of climate change. It would become very difficult after this time. That is why we need investment to ensure efficient use of energy. We need to transition to a sustainable economy and 100% clean energy. These actions can not only combat climate change but also better everyone’s quality of life. Action at a local, European and global level is called for on climate change. Malta can set an example as to what it means to be a sustainable economy which ensures the quality of life of its citizens.”
Carmel Cacopardo, AD Chairperson stated that “the changeover of energy
generation from HFO to gas was a positive step. However gas is considered as a transition fuel, in transit in the path to renewable energy generation. We require more energy generated from the sun and wind and we also need to ensure that good use is made of energy generated from waves so abundant in the seas around us. The application of technology will lead to the creation of new sustainable jobs and simultaneously contribute to the betterment of everyone’s quality of life.”
“Transport is still a problem”, added Carmel Cacopardo “the problem will escalate further due to the astronomic increase in the number of cars on the roads. Unfortunately, instead of investing in sustainable transport, government has embarked on a massive programme of further development of the road infrastructure which will only end up in encouraging more cars on our roads. Consequently this will negativate the progress being registered with the registered increases in the use of public transport. We require real investments in infrastructure for bicycles and
pedelecs.”
Carmel Cacopardo added that the proposed tunnel between Malta and Gozo is essentially a tunnel for the use of cars not for people. In fact it is estimated that the vehicle movement between the two islands is projected to increase from 3000 to 9000 vehicle movements daily over a fifteen year period. A service provided for the movement of people would be a fast ferry service : from Gozo to the commercial centres of Malta.” The encouragement of the use of cars is central to the projected tunnel as tolls are paid and collected from car owners.”
Mina Jack Tolu 