The EU's progress towards sustainable development : an assessment of environmental indicators in Malta and Sweden

Abstract

The concept of sustainable development has been around for decades, however, it has become much more mainstream in the recent years. Each European Union member state is expected to follow up with the rules and fulfil the targets; however, how realistic is it to expect all countries to work in the same manner and achieve the same targets? Considering the inherent differences associated with each member state, this study aims to it investigate the feasibility of a one-size-fits-all policy by analysing the results measured in an indicator form which have been achieved by Malta and Sweden in the Municipal Solid Waste area. In order to do so the sustainable development strategies of Malta and Sweden have been analysed with a special emphasis of MSW. Malta and Sweden have been chosen as a representation of other member states due to their distinctive differences and in view of the fact that, despite this, they are still subject to the same targets. The literature review gives an overview of both the Maltese and Swedish situation within the sustainable development area. Both countries' sustainable development strategies have been summarised and assessed. The next· two chapters give a comprehensive image of the MSW situation in both countries and their fulfilment in the area. Furthermore, an interview was held with two people knowledgeable in this area both from a Maltese and Swedish perspective. The results attained are then analysed from both countries' point of views along with the information gathered during the interviews. The results obtained justify that a one-size-fits all policy, does not always prove to be the best or most ideal option in every situation, however certain advantages can also be noted.