The Energy Crisis in the context of Climate Change

The energy crisis is a global socio-economic challenge, where a constrained supply of energy and its diminished availability, is increasing energy prices for consumers. Politicians seem to have, unfortunately, only recently woken up to the consequences that have emerged from a more limited supply of energy.

Russia’s war on Ukraine raging on the European border together with climate change and the repercussions of depletion will necessitate drastic action if economic and environmental disaster is to be prevented. Such action would need the replacement of both energy production infrastructure and much of our energy consumption infrastructure, which was built to take advantage of the capabilities of fossil fuels.

The false assumption that countries must pursue economic growth for the rest of the century, regardless of how rich they have already become, creates a problem as economic growth is projected to drive a significant increase in energy demand over the coming decades, making it more challenging to decarbonize the economy.

Although economic growth is commonly used by policymakers as a representative of human development and societal advancement, ecological economists suggest that high-income countries should adopt post-growth policies aimed at keeping economies stable and supporting strong social outcomes without the need for economic growth. A clear example is Spain which significantly outperforms the USA in key social indicators such as a life expectancy that is five years longer, despite having 55% less GDP per capita. Post-growth policies also contribute towards achieving the Paris Climate goals of keeping global warming below 1.5 °C or 2 °C. It is indeed a fact that if high-income nations continue to grow at usual rates, they will need to decarbonize their economic output by more than 12% per year, creating a significant challenge.

Empirical research shows a substantial link between GDP and energy use. According to post-growth research, high income countries should abandon GDP growth in favor for providing for human needs and well-being. To examine the link between GDP and resource use, the total weight of raw materials taken from the host region, plus all physical imports minus all physical imports, is the traditional metric for quantifying an economy’s resource consumption. This offers an idea of an economy’s resource efficiency. When GDP exceeds domestic material consumption, or DMC, the economy becomes more resource efficient. The European Union uses GDP/DMC to track progress toward green growth. It is also the OECD’s annual Green Growth indicators report’s lead statistic.

Empirical data demonstrates that while absolute decoupling of GDP from emissions is possible and is already happening in some regions, it is unlikely to happen fast enough to respect the carbon budgets for 1.5°C and 2°C against a background of continued economic growth. Growth increases energy demand, making the transition to renewable energy more difficult, and increases emissions from land use change and industrial processes. Models that do project green growth within the constraints of the Paris Agreement rely heavily on negative emissions technologies that are either unproven or dangerous at scale. Without these technologies, the rates of decarbonisation is significantly steeper than extant models suggest is feasible even with harsh competitive policies.

The Energy Crisis and Putin’s war on Ukraine

Russia began reducing gas supplies before the war on Ukraine began. However, Russia’s suspended supplies have exacerbated the energy crisis, particularly since Russia used to contribute 40% of Europe’s natural gas, and much more to Germany, where cheap energy was an economic cornerstone.

Russia has suspended supplies of inexpensive natural gas, on which the continent has relied on to power industry, produce electricity and heat homes. As a result, European governments are scrambling for additional sources and strategies to mitigate the impact as economic development slows and home electricity prices soar. Following the Nord Stream 1 pipeline shutdown, Russian gas supplies have dropped 89% year on year.

High energy prices are already threatening to produce a recession this winter due to record inflation, with consumers having less money to spend as food, gasoline, and utility prices surge. A total shutdown may cause even more havoc on an already ailing economy.

Companies also warn that they frequently cannot switch to alternative energy sources such as fuel, oil, or electricity to create heat overnight. In addition, as everyone looks for other sources, the prices of fuel, oil and coal have soared.

What is being done?

Energy security will continue to be a serious challenge at the center of European energy strategy and a need for a more resilient society. Despite this uncertainty, EU leaders have emphasized the significance of sticking to our goal in becoming climate-neutral by 2050.
The European Union has taken the following three major measures to reduce the cost of energy:

1. Reducing electricity use
2. Capping revenues of electricity producers
3. A solidarity contribution from fossil fuels

The EU’s priority in its response to the energy crisis is to ensure affordable and competitive energy for its consumers, increase the EU’s energy security and preparedness in the event of emergencies and to strengthen the energy resilience and autonomy of EU countries. Malta, however, has chosen not to participate in this plan to reduce energy consumption, which will in turn make it even more difficult for Malta to work towards decarbonisation.

Nevertheless, the lack of awareness and selfish mentality must be replaced by proper education campaigns that run through each and every member state to teach children and adults to reduce their household energy costs now more than ever before.

The post Tackling the Energy Crisis and Climate Change Require Reducing Energy Use – But We Are Not Doing Nearly Enough l XR appeared first on The Third Eye.

Administrative Board:

• Chairperson – Kris Bajada
• Vice Chairperson for Internal Affairs – Isabel Mallia
• Vice Chairperson for External Affairs – Zosia Stelmaszczyk
• Secretary General – AnneMarie Gonzi
• Treasurer – Kevin Vella Zammit
• Artistic Director – Lana Berty Spiteri
• Logistics Manager – Leandros Catania
• Events Officer – Robert Castaldi

Executive Board:

• Educational Officer – Miguel Azzopardi
• Educational Officer – Maia Zammit
• Policy and Collaborative Officer – Luke Said
• Media Manager – Travis Camilleri
• Events Coordinator – Zachary Farrugia
• Events Coordinator – Lina Iskhakova
• Events Coordinator – Katya Rollason
• Events, Arts, and Social Media Coordinator – Emily G. Robinson

Presidential Comment

I would like to thank the newly elected Executive Committee of Extinction Rebellion Malta for putting their faith in me to once again take on the role of Chairperson.

I feel privileged and honoured to be working with some of the most enthusiastic and dedicated individuals. I know together we will make Extinction Rebellion Malta bigger, better, and stronger than ever before!

I am pleased to announce that during this term, Extinction Rebellion Malta plans on addressing the climate crisis in a new holistic way by working on social issues, infrastructural regulations, and policy proposals. We strongly feel that by adopting this new holistic outlook that the climate crisis can be strongly tackled. 

We will also continue working with organisations and policy makers as together, we can truly contribute to making a better world for all.

Lastly, I would like to thank the incredible Executive Members for their tireless work, while being keen to embark on this new journey with this newly elected executive.

Let us together be the change we wish to see.

Kris Bajada, Extinction Rebellion Malta Chairperson

The Third Eye wishes the new executive the best of luck for their upcoming term!

The post Kris Bajada to lead Extinction Rebellion for the third consecutive year appeared first on The Third Eye.

The probability of a tsunami in Malta is highly likely within the next few decades. It won’t wait for anyone, and the Maltese Islands need to be prepared for anything.

Rising sea levels are posing a threat to millions of people around the world. Scientific evidence indicates that the temperature in the Mediterranean Sea has been increasing 20% quicker than any other sea and ocean due to global warming.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) reported that there is a 100% chance of a Mediterranean tsunami occurring in the next three decades. This is already being witnessed in many other places already affected by rising sea levels including Greece, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Thailand, Somalia, Tanzania, South Africa, and Australia. For these countries, continuing with our current trajectory basically means that these countries will cease to exist.

One of many effects of a tsunami on the Maltese Islands is that, for example, aquifers and subterranean infrastructure will be jeopardised while anything below the level of the Valletta Bastions will sink. It is also highly probable that Msida, Sliema and St. Julians as well as Ċirkewwa will flood while Għadira will come close to splitting the main island in two.

Furthermore, the Blue Lagoon in Comino will most likely be completely lost and bays such as the Santa Marija and San Niklaw bays will expand inwards due to the rising sea levels. On the other hand, Gozo will not be as badly impacted, as only a small number of bays would be affected. However, the inland sea in Dwejra will still move inbound.

What can be done to prepare ourselves

As a country that is at high-risk of a tsunami occurrence, Malta must improve upon its education on the subject of climate change. As it stands, education on climate change and its effects are sub-par and does not do enough to educate young people on the severity of it. Thus, Malta must put in greater efforts in its education of this subject, focusing on teaching young children and teenagers on understanding climate change, how to help reduce it with their own small efforts and how best to prepare for climate catastrophes.

All children need to be properly thought on how to shelter in place till the earthquake passes and then seek their way to higher ground away from coastal areas to avoid the walls of water the tsunami triggers.

Countries which have already experienced earthquakes and tsunamis have also learned that better building codes can save lives and prevent damage.

What action is being taken

The Maltese islands are currently not equipped with a national tsunami warning centre.

Malta will join six other Mediterranean countries through a 30-month EU funded project called CoastWAVE identifying localities which need to be tsunami-ready, culminating in the installation of a permanent tsunami-alerting system.

In the case of Malta, Marsaxlokk has been appointed as a case study to become the first ‘Tsunami ready’ area, carrying out its first tsunami drill last November.  To be tsunami ready,  it needs to satisfy twelve key indicators such as hazard preparedness and response.

Malta is also preparing to set up activities that will lead to a national tsunami-ready plan. UNESCO also aims to evaluate local tsunami response plans and improve regional coordination.

As a nation we need to recognise that rising sea-levels are an ongoing threatening reality which needs more awareness. Ignoring the problem will not make it go away and every one of us has an obligation to support initiatives to reduce the impact of climate change while also learning from the mistakes of other countries already hit by tsunamis.

Therefore, it is crucial that such threats to our livelihoods are taken seriously, by taking the correct steps to prevent and mitigate the problems that could arise from being unprepared for such extreme instances. Being prepared for such events means the difference between saving lives and losing them; the government must no longer delay in addressing this problem.

Event Details

On the 23rd of July, XR Malta will be hosting a pub quiz at The Anvil Pub, all about tsunamis and their impact on our environment and lives. It is a great way to learn more about the issue whilst playing fun games to win a great prize!

For more Articles written by XR Malta click here!

The post Malta needs to be tsunami-ready but we are nowhere near prepared | XR appeared first on The Third Eye.

Present in the meeting where PN members Karl Goulder and Michael Piccinino, along with Kris Bajada – XR Chair, Isabel Mallia -XR Secretary General, Zofia Stelmaszczyk – XR Vice President, and Kevin Vella Zammit – XR Treasurer.

Extinction Rebellion Malta had a list of topics they wished to discuss with the PN members. The topics consisted of:

Impact on Mental and Physical Health

During the first four months of 2019, 105 people died from chronic asthma as stated by Chris Fearne in Parliament. It has also been found first biggest reason of deaths in Malta are cardiovascular diseases, with 25% of the population suffering from obesity.

The second biggest death in the country was found to be respiratory diseases – in the first four months of 2019, 105 people died from chronic asthmas as stated by Chris Fearne.

Furthermore, according to WHO, 120,000 people in Malta are living with a mental disorder, and it has been proven that the global pandemic is worsening the situation.

Solutions were mentioned by XR in order to combat these problems. They mentioned how more green areas in Malta would reduce air pollutions and invite people to engage in physical activity and to spend time in a calm and healthy environment.

Environmental Committees and Developments

Previously, the Nationalist Party had proposed the creation of a new agency focused on climate change, therefore, XR feels that the PN would be open to the suggestion that there should be the introduction of more stringent Environmental Impact Assessments to be performed on new development in areas.

Moreover, XR believes that environmental organisations should have a larger say in the development of property.

Energy Generation and Sustainability

When it comes to energy generation and sustainability, XR feels that the following should implemented: the continuation of subsidies for pv installations, the development of implementation of offshore wind turbine farm, a law which states that all new domestic and industrial buildings be as energetically efficient as possible, and that all government buildings should achieve LEED certification within the next five years.

Transport

XR proposed that short-term plans should also be implemented along with long-term plans such as the metro system. Short-term plans would include wider pavements and an increase in bike lanes, which would encourage more people to travel by bicycle.

Food and Hydroponics

XR proposed the following points with regards to the importance of food and food water:

• Tackling food waste

Illegalising food waste due to packaging damage – instead, donating to a food bank. Furthermore, they also proposed that there should be a law requiring all supermarkets to have discount sections for short dated items.

• Increasing vegetarian\vegan food availability

Proposed a law requiring all food outlets to have a minimum of 10% vegan and 10% vegetarian options.

• Public awareness campaign

Environmental impact of beef and dairy by the use of public campaigns.

Extinction Rebellion Malta mentioned the above mentioned points to the members of the Nationalist Party and discussed the possibility of these new laws and proposals being enacted. While there was agreement on some of the points, others have to be thought of in more detail, however there is still the possibility of them being implemented in the future.

XR meeting with other political parties

Moreover, XR have met and are meeting with different political parties which include but are not limited to Volt and The government represented by Aaron Farrugia to speak about the climate crisis as they believe it is an important topic and one which should be taken more seriously.

The post Extinction Rebellion Malta Fights Climate Crisis One Political Party at a Time appeared first on The Third Eye.

Written by Miguel Azzopardi

Malta’s current political system is broken beyond repair – an unsurprising fact to careful observers. Meaningful debates are stifled by a two-party system and an entrenched partisan divide that seeks to spin issues into being in favour or against the interests of a particular party. For a growing number of people, disillusioned with the way local politics operates, there is no party that can claim to represent them.

The Problem with Two-Party Systems

Two-party systems are unsuited to reflect diversities of opinion. It is no surprise that countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom which also boast two-party systems have found themselves respectively intertwined with deeply divisive societal crises. As it stands, no major party, whichever that may be, is regarded as competent enough to solve. The Maltese reality is that a majority of individuals still consider family allegiances a significant consideration when it comes to casting their vote – something that is rather telling of the nature of partisan influence.

So too is the willful embrace of corruption and the acceptance of favour-trading by a notable part of the population as something desirable within the local political scene. A binary form of thinking which sees everyone representing one side or the other predominates, making it impossible to focus on the crucial issues at hand.

The Activist Lens

From an activist’s perspective, the two-party system currently in place is a poisonous context under which the country operates. Far too often, activists are deemed to be a threatening force against the Government or a particular party, reinforcing the reality that a poor outlook on activism exists and is a product of founded political bias. Education has failed to provide a meaningful space in which subjects of a political nature can be easily debated so much so that politics has become somewhat of a taboo subject, both at home and on school grounds. The national University itself is another example of such, afflicted by factionalism thus making cooperation between departments difficult at times. Partisanship, in the meantime, deflects the focus from significant issues and obscures similarities between the two major parties.

Why Neo-Liberalism in a Two-Party System?

Both of Malta’s major political parties have taken neo-liberal ideologies to heart, oblivious to the fact that neo-liberalism rests on extremely flawed and dubious theoretical foundations. Global inequality has risen to such extreme heights, it is now comparable – if not worse – to those present in France before the fall of the ancien régime in the French Revolution. Pursuing neo-liberal policies at home and entrusting public goods to the private sector risks replicating similar high levels of inequality which are present globally.

While the disadvantaged struggle to make ends meet, we look towards the notorious Mercury Tower in Paceville rising above Malta’s skyline feeding the property magnate’s – Joseph Portelli – corpulent pockets. With Portelli’s (continuously growing) property empire, it is hard not to feel that he, and others like him, have garnered a level of privileged power that is comparable to, if not more than, that of a feudal lord.

Two-Party Systems: A Hurdle for Change

It is not rare that lobby groups, like the MDA, pass on the burden of proposals we, as activists, have put forth onto the people. We were once told that if we wished for more stringent environmental requirements for buildings, the MDA would have to pass the extra costs onto the people. But, why must the MDA pass on this burden when they themselves have profited so much from lax (or non-existent) planning policies? For movements that seek to bring about transformative societal change – some being Extinction Rebellion Malta, Moviment Graffitti, and Young Progressive Beings – the two-party system is an unfortunate context in which these groups have to use their voice.

Few left-wing activists genuinely believe that political parties are capable of confronting powerful lobbies to bring about meaningful change. Grassroots activism is the main and most effective means of bringing about positive and progressive change. It is by creating significant connections with all people that broader movements and coalitions can be built as well as thrive, holding governments accountable. The demonisation of activists – in the name of defending the party, government or the nation – reduces the efficiency of these tactics but nonetheless, it is the best strategy we have.

Monetising Human Relationships

Political parties, but often also society, fail to discuss the issues that have led us to the situation we are in now. The monetisation of basic human relationships with ourselves, others, as well as the environment, is perhaps the main cause of the confluence of crises we find ourselves in right now: the pandemic, the climate crisis, rampant inequality.

It is telling perhaps that post-growth thinking – a school of thought that places societal and ecological well-being within the centre of public policy – has not yet made much of an imprint within Malta. In placing care work, the restoration of the commons, ecological limits, wealth redistribution, and greater autonomy at the centre of public policy, this school of thought is fundamentally at odds with the current economic and political framework and is likely to provoke the derision of vested interests.

If our well-being mattered to our politicians, the least they could do is talk about it but even on that front, they generally fail. We hear much about how we need to stimulate ‘economic growth’ and how we are a ‘strong nation’, with well-being rarely featuring, if at all. Black-and-white thinking (which is itself a symptom of a dysfunctional two-party system) frames complex geopolitical and socio-economic realities as questions of ‘us’ and ‘them’ while growth is presented as the antidote to a failed economic system. The repetition of these mantras, once again, deflects attention from deeper issues and stifles the debate.

Capitalism = Inequality + Environmental Degredation

Nowhere is there a local discussion with regards to how capitalism itself is a driver of inequality and environmental degradation. The IPBES recently identified encroachment into wilderness areas, industrial farming and unsustainable consumption as a driver of pandemics. Our unhealthy relationship with nature has initiated the current global pandemic, similarly to how it has aggravated and fueled the ongoing global climate crisis.

This applies to social contexts as well. When we assign everything a monetary value, we displace people and human relationships from our frame of understanding. Women, for example, end up with a disproportionate weight of work as they are expected to both contribute professionally while also being entrusted with an inordinate share of care work – an undervalued field precisely because it cannot be monetised. This creates reversion to socially constructed gender roles, especially in times of crisis similar to the present day. 

Closing Words

Social justice cannot be achieved within a capitalist system because capitalism itself is defined by inequality. Nowhere in our political spectrum is there an acknowledgement that the crises we face are systemic and that technocratic interventions are unlikely to go far. There is a profound spiritual and imaginative deficit in the way we talk and think about society, stifled by partisanship, vested interests and a broad acceptance of the status quo. A principal way of overcoming this is by playing a more active role in the creation of a better society.

Democracy is not just something we exercise every five years when we go to elect our politicians. In the words of Serge Latouche, there is an urgent need to ‘[liberate] the imaginary’ and to reimagine a fairer, better society for all.

The post Activism in a Two-Party System | XR appeared first on The Third Eye.

Written by Miguel Azzopardi and Krizia Testa

Major concerns have been brought up regarding the roadworks currently occurring on ODZ land in Dingli. The roadworks exceed the area specified in the 2006 Local Plan, going beyond the ODZ line. Therefore, according to the Planning Authority, the works require a permit. However, this has not been hung up on-site and has not been provided by Infrastructure Malta when repeatedly requested by activists and Dingli residents. In fact, over 200 residents signed a petition objecting to the works, which not only endanger several 300-year-old carob trees but also threaten a medieval church from the 1400s.

The Salesians of Don Bosco, who own part of the ODZ land being lost to the roadworks, have publicly stated that they were left uninformed of the works on their land, right up until the diggers appeared on site. Their property is still in the process of being expropriated and the compensation due has never been discussed and not yet received. Other landowners have also shared similar experiences during the latest press release.

The local council’s approval of the project has also been dogged by conflicts of interest. Three Dingli councillors backed the ODZ road works, including Dingli’s deputy mayor. Given that the deputy mayor and one of the councillors work with the Infrastructure Ministry, and another councillor heads an Infrastructure Malta unit, we feel that the councillors in question should have recused themselves from the vote, considering the potential bias and conflict of interest. Several residents have also voiced their concerns that this road project may be a prelude for further development on ODZ land – their concerns being supported by the fact that the road leads to nowhere. This follows a well-worn pattern of infrastructural projects designed to accommodate the interests of developers and the construction industry, such as the recent roundabout in Burmarrad, as well as the roadworks in Fomm ir-Riħ, leading to the Malta Developers’ Association head Sandro Chetchuti’s property. 

All government projects should thoroughly consider the needs of local communities and the environment, as well as proceed according to standard procedures and regulations. No credible reason for building the road has been provided and regular procedures have not been adhered to, raising concerns of abuse of power. We, therefore, stand strongly in objection to these roadworks in Dingli and support Moviment Graffiti’s actions in objection to it. The major concerns surrounding the project have not been adequately addressed by Infrastructure Malta and we feel that a proper dialogue should be established between the interested parties: residents, activists and Infrastructure Malta. Dialogue and transparency are a fundamental part of the democratic process and the authorities are duty-bound to uphold this commitment.

Check out XR’s previous article here!

The post Extinction Rebellion Malta’s response to the Dingli Roadwork’s Project appeared first on The Third Eye.

Kris Bajada who was the Secretary General of Extinction Rebellion Malta will now occupy the role of Chairperson of Extinction Rebellion Malta for the remainder of the term after an internal discussion of the executive and a vote of confidence by the executive of Extinction Rebellion Malta.

The new executive of Extinction Rebellion Malta shall be composed of the following executive members for the remainder of the term:

Chairperson:  Kris Bajada

Secretary General:  Miguel Azzopardi

Treasurer: Kevin Vella Zammit

PRO: Krizia Testa

Campaign Officer: Venus Langley

Events Officer: Boris Dimitrov

Education Officer: Jeremie Tranchant

Social Policy Officer: Jacob Callus

Outreach Officer: Andrew Thake

Supporting Executive Member: Sara Marston

Supporting Executive Member: Martina Zammit

“I would like to thank the executive committee of Extinction Rebellion Malta for putting their faith in me to be the next Chairperson and Sara Marston for her tireless work towards the organisation.

I feel privileged and honoured to be working with some of the most experienced and dedicated individuals and I know together we will make Extinction Rebellion Malta bigger, better, and stronger than it has ever been before.

I invite all those who feel they can contribute to join XR Malta because only together can we solve the challenge of today and tomorrow.

Lastly, I would like to thank everyone who has supported me throughout the years; be it during the KSU elections or during my time in UESA. I am sure that I would not be here today if it were not for your support over the years.”

Kris Bajada

The Third Eye would like to congratulate Sara Marston for her work towards the organisation and society as a whole! A big well done and good luck to Kris Bajada.

The post XR welcomes Kris Bajada as the new chairperson for the term appeared first on The Third Eye.

Written by Miguel Azzopardi

The coronavirus pandemic has once more laid bare the inequalities, injustices, and failings inherent of our economic system. Economic and health policies were, on the whole, designed to benefit the people who already have significant wealth, power, and influence. But what if we could redesign our economic foundations so that there was no need for a choice between economic stability and health? Most importantly, what if we could do that and introduce a better, fairer, society along the way?

This is one of the goals of the degrowth – or post-growth – movement (misleading name, I know) – a set of ideas that seek to create a society where economic growth is not necessary for economic and social stability and prosperity.

First emerging in the 1970s out of concern for an increase in resource use…

…it developed into a broad range of concerns surrounding the current economic system. At this point in time, scientific research began to point out the physical limitations of growth-orientated economic policy: Earth’s resources are finite and eventually will cease to exist if consumption continues to rapidly expand. This was later compounded by research that showed that economic growth in rich countries did not lead to a meaningful increase in wellbeing. These countries tend to already meet their population’s material needs enough to guarantee a good living standard.

Recent studies have also shown a lack of evidence in order to support the idea that greenhouse gas emissions can be efficiently decoupled from GDP growth.

Hence, among degrowth’s core ideals lie greater individual autonomy and a common societal approach. Resources are shared, individuals have more leisure time for care and for other self-sustaining work they wish to do, and wealth and power are fairly distributed. In doing so, we would also be provoking a healthier relationship with nature.

It also continues a critique of development theory with proponents arguing that enforced development of the Global South is nothing more than another form of colonialism. In this critique, companies from the Global North exploit resources in the Global South to support their own economies. This has significant implications for economies seeking to become carbon neutral, as it also identifies how emissions, while perhaps reduced on a national scale, may continue to increase internationally if countries keep pursuing policies in virtue of economic growth.

The question is: How are we to transition towards a post-growth or degrowth society?

There are a number of proposals and so, many potential ways of achieving this. The first would be to instate a universal basic income or job guarantee complimented by a maximum income. This would ensure that individuals are able to support themselves and that we do not have people needlessly accumulating wealth which they would re-invest in ways that may potentially enforce abuse on society. This also ought to be complemented by measures that would reduce working time therefore allowing people to dedicate more time to care work and other activities they consider valuable, enhancing their autonomy. This would also create more jobs as tasks are then split between each worker, rather than seeking the exploitation of each individual.

Another approach would be to bring the government directly to the people through forms of direct democracy. In Malta, this would mean giving significant powers to local councils and seeing the creation of citizens’ assemblies. This would allow people to have an active role in making decisions that directly affect them – instead of relegating these to appointed officials.

A third approach would be to reform the banking sector and monetary policy. This would involve the removal of interest rates from loans and instating different currencies depending on the type of product being sold. Alternative currencies can help make sure that the monetary value of products sold reflects any embedded social and environmental costs, with different types of products having different currencies. On the other hand, removing interest rates and public ownership of the banking sector would make sure that money is being used to improve public, rather than private, assets.

This touches on another aim of degrowth and post-growth thought –  the restoration of commons (i.e. public assets). In this framework, public assets like Miżieb and Aħrax are administered by a commission made up of ordinary people chosen by sortition as well as interested parties. Public assets that were privatised, like Fort Chambray and Manoel Island, should be returned to the public. Likewise, private property should not be considered as an inalienable right, but rather a form of guardianship.

As countries are still experimenting with some of these proposals – some of which have not been thoroughly experimented with – it’s evident that there is no set way of creating a society that is not reliant on growth. However, a combination of different strategies will be needed.

Many countries have started to acknowledge the need to move towards post-growth societies, if only implicitly so. 

Back in 2018, the governments of Scotland, New Zealand and Iceland announced that well-being would become an integral part of public policy and hence, formed the Well-being Economy Governments partnership. Likewise, earlier this year, Amsterdam announced it would be reconsidering its economic priorities using the ‘doughnut’ economic model – a model devised by Oxford economist Kate Raworth which places societal and ecological well-being at its centre.

In Malta, we have yet to make any similar acknowledgement. As recently as August, the government announced economic growth and carbon-neutrality among the pillars of economic policy. Few have acknowledged that carbon-neutrality and economic growth are mutually exclusive and that the ability for growth to enhance our well-being is now seriously in doubt. Acknowledging the transition ahead ought to be an important first step.

With the twin crises of the rapidly accelerating climate breakdown and the COVID-19 pandemic, the need to create societies that are not reliant on growth is more necessary than ever. In moving towards a post-growth society, we can create a fairer society that acts in harmony with the natural world.

Check out Extinction Rebellion’s previous article!

The post Moving Towards A Post-Growth Society In Malta | XR appeared first on The Third Eye.

Written by Sara Marston

Malta is certainly no stranger to controversial agreements, especially to those that take place surreptitiously. What happened on the 9th of October 2020, is a testament to this.

Ignoring the public’s cries, four ministers from Robert Abela’s cabinet – namely Ian Borg, Aaron Farrugia, Chris Agius, and Clint Camilleri – signed an agreement that sees the Lands Authority handing over the two biggest Maltese wooded areas to the FKNK hunting fraternity, i.e. Federazzjoni Kaccaturi Nassaba Konservazzjonisti.

When suggested earlier on in the year, this same proposal was strongly opposed by several environmental and cultural NGOs that firmly recognised that placing Malta’s biggest woodlands under the management of the hunting lobby that’s been the source of controversy for years would be a colossal environmental injustice. This is why the initial release of the news immediately provoked extensive outrage. The deal lacked transparency and it became apparent that Mizieb and Ahrax, the two woodlands in question which happen to be five times larger than Buskett, were about to be exchanged for the mere price of two hundred euros each. And for what, you might ask? The one thing that all power-hungry individuals revere. Political gain. 

As the public, we felt, and still feel betrayed – and rightfully so.

FKNK has full jurisdiction over which areas of Mizieb and Ahrax, two supposedly public green areas I might add, are accessible to the public during hunting season. This means that we are to be restricted access six and a half months out of the entire year. FKNK also has the authority to decide which areas are designated as picnic areas. In a public statement, FKNK expressed in a predictable manner that nothing will change, but here’s the simple math: If we are only allowed to enter Mizieb and Ahrax five months and a half out of twelve and when doing so, be restricted to as much as three, small designated picnic areas, then no, nothing will be the same.

Why weren’t the Mellieha and St.Paul’s Bay local councils approached about this agreement long before it was to be signed? This is not the action of a democratic country. By not being fully transparent with the local councils, as well as the residents residing in these localities, the authorities involved in the making of this agreement shouldn’t be so surprised by the backlash they have received since the news was made public. They must have shivered at the thought of herds of angry people gathering and protesting as they signed away our environment as though it’s a toy that could be bought. The simple fact that the signing was moved up by two days and took place behind closed doors, against our knowledge and away from the media’s gaze, proves that we are right.

FKNK has illegally claimed Miżieb and Ahrax as their hunting grounds for years.

Now they need to claim so no more as these two woodlands were officially gifted to them to be their legal hunting ground all-year-round. It is as if though the Government flicked a switch and so easily forgot of FKNK’s illegalities over the years: how they have illegally shot down protected birds, how they have restricted access to the public before, how they rarely properly dispose of shotgun cartridges, leaving them to accumulate, and how they have set up signs and structures without legal permits.

They have continuously and indirectly expressed their dismissal for the natural environment. If this has been the case all along, there is no guarantee that anything will be different this time round. There is no assurance that the biggest green areas in Malta – and Malta isn’t exactly brimming with green – are in safe and secure hands.

Last year, 180,000 square metres of the Miżieb woodlands were engulfed by fires, and thousands of trees were destroyed. Miżieb consists of several Aleppo Pines which are intermixed with invasive alien species, making them highly flammable. If FKNK does not implement concrete management regulations, there is reason to believe that not only will these fires become more frequent due to loose regulations, but more protected birds will likely be shot down.

It has not stopped them before, and there is certainly nothing stopping them now. 

The Maltese environment as well as our cultural heritage have been incessantly disrespected and abused. Public land ought to stay public – for the enjoyment of all. No amount of money or votes will ever equate in importance to our environment.

Daphne Caruana Galizia once said, “where environmental damage is greatest, so is corruption”. It’s time for everyone to heed these words. The fight is far from over.

The post The fate of green areas in Malta | XR appeared first on The Third Eye.

Above are only a few of the countless international headlines that my eyes have traversed across painfully these last few months. Painfully as evidently this is not news we have not encountered time and time again. Yet, as prominent as news regarding our changing climate is, people in power especially still refuse to see the real danger that rests behind the climate crisis, its urgency felt at different extremes around the world.  It is either that they do not wish to believe the science which clearly states that anthropogenic factors have accelerated climate change, or they do not wish to face the truth – that a future on this planet looks bleak and uncertain if we do not implement a green transition, fast.

Malta is not immune to climate change, or to political irresponsibility for that matter. As the crisis worsens – and it will – we have a lot to lose as a small island in the Mediterranean Sea and we do not have the luxury to believe otherwise. The climate crisis topic has been brought up many times in conversations I’ve had with different people and a large percentage of the time I receive a similar response: We cannot do anything, the government will do whatever it wishes to anyways.

This is exceedingly problematic. They have pushed forth their agenda, no matter the consequences that will or might arise, and we have sat idly by. We have recognised our politicians’ lack of willingness to act and have accepted it as it is, in turn feeding climate inaction. How do we expect our politicians to do better if we do not force them to?  Local emissions were slightly deducted during the ongoing pandemic due to the reduction of cars on the road. Some will say that this is a step forward, and yes, it is, but it does not mean that we have done our part in tackling climate change. A complete reduction in the use of carbon-emitting vehicles is merely one resolution amid a resolution pool.

The widening of roads to ‘reduce’ traffic, the Malta-Gozo tunnel which will supposedly make things easier, the Central Link project which has disrupted farmers’ livelihoods and saw the cruel chop of copious mature trees, the construction of apartments on ODZ land. These projects are doing anything but helping the public. They are trampling over natural carbon sinks, which are indispensable, and essentially placing money into the pockets of the power-hungry. We have heard word from our Prime Ministers regarding the introduction of electric cars and greener transport, word of the introduction of carbon-neutral strategies, word of greater investment in renewable energy, and so on and so forth. A climate emergency was even declared by parliament last year. Yet, we are yet to see any change being implemented. Talk is cheap, but action is priceless.

You may or may not have heard of Extinction Rebellion, a non-partisan global movement, present in over 72 countries including Malta, which is using non-violent acts of civil disobedience forcing governments to declare and act on the global climate emergency. With bold demands, such as achieving net-zero emissions by 2025, and several resilient values and principles that allow the movement to justly bring about systemic change, Extinction Rebellion has earned global attention – and rightfully so.

Following a brief pause at the beginning of the year due to COVID-19, Extinction Rebellion Malta introduced an August campaign in which members took to the steps of Castille in a series of sit-ins to bring awareness to the government’s lack of action. Respecting COVID-19 restrictions, the sit-ins provided a platform on which we could voice our priorities to the public, some of which include carbon neutrality, curtailing unsustainable development and endorsing urban greening, promoting green transport initiatives, and greater investment in renewable energy. These demands are only a few of the many, as the main aim remains to not only change one facet of but the entire system.

As Extinction Rebellion Malta, we have done our part in supporting the XR global movement, not only in bringing awareness to the global climate emergency but also to local climate inaction and unjust environmental degradation. There is very little to no time left and that is why our work as a movement is of great importance.  Tactics such as lobbying or voting – though of immense significance – have not brought about the necessary changes. We must believe in an active democracy. That is why Extinction Rebellion has stepped forth with a different and impactful approach, and we will not stop until significant change is brought about. 

The post An Open Letter to the Authorities about Climate Change | XR appeared first on The Third Eye.