Public transport and the environment in Malta

Abstract

More than 100 years of motorised transport has changed the world. It would be impossible to imagine life today without the mobility bestowed by motorised transport. Industry and local public services are dependant on modern commercial vehicles for a whole range of tasks, ranging from shipment of parts through to ambulance transport. The public at large is equally dependant on motorised transport for practically all its activities be it going to work or for pleasure. No other means of transport offers comparable flexibility. But the growing number of vehicles is placing ever-greater burdens on the environment, affecting our atmosphere, plant and animal life, and man as well. Even the cleanest and most economical of conventional engines burn fossil fuels. It is not yet technically possible even with catalytic converters and other technical improvements to completely prevent the emission of carbon dioxide and other harmful emissions from these engines. It is with this thought in mind that this present study is undertaken in the hope that an increased awareness is fostered and policy decisions are taken to reduce as much as possible the impact on the environment.