Good For Business, Good For The Planet And Completely Free! Net Zero Comes To Malta
The climate is running amok around us and it’s still set to get wilder. Going green is something we all know we need to do, but if you’re working in or running a hospitality business, then how do you do it? How can you proceed? and would you like the chance of winning €500 to become more sustainable?
Sam from Lovin Malta talked to Dr Xenia Loizidou from AKTI Project and Research Centre to find out more about sustainability projects here in Malta, about the the Zero Waste Future Programme and the recent launch of the Net Zero HORECA program in Malta.
AKTI is an international organisation which works to raise environmental awareness and promoting sustainable development by applying research in practical ways. The Zero Waste Future Programme was introduced in Malta in 2019 with the aim to accelerate the behavioural change required to make the circular economy and recycling part of people’s hearts, minds, and everyday routines.
This was done through a domestic waste characterisation study in the Cottonera area, with on-the-go recycling and educational campaigns in schools.
Now the Zero Waste Program has evolved to the Net Zero HORECA program, encouraging hospitality venues improve their performance towards sustainability by introducing smart practices. The aim is to improve the use of resources such as energy and water and minimise the carbon footprint . Did you know, for example, that by installing water aerators on taps can reduce water usage by 40%.
AKTI provides support along the way via the Responsible HoReCa Business Network within the Net Zero HORECA program, which is supported by The Coca-Cola Foundation. Being part of this network is entirely voluntary and there are no strict entry requirements or rules for members so, as it’s entirely free to join, there’s nothing to lose and everything to gain.
Transitioning to Net Zero is not as difficult as it sounds and by signing up, you’ll get valuable help and recognition for being drivers of change!
The network will offer practical support for implementing smart and simple practices with a great sustainability impact and encouragement to businesses taking steps towards a Net Zero target.
Simply by using LED lightbulbs you could reduce your energy usage by 70% saving money and reducing carbon emissions, explains Dr Loizidou. Also, “[cafes and restaurants] can add a vegetarian option or a vegan option,” she continues. “1 kilo of beef is equal to the production of 60 kilos of CO2.”
Because sustainability is not theory but practice, for each new practice implemented, AKTI will estimate the reduction in equal CO2 emissions over a certain length of time. It’s great news for the world and great information to share with customers.
As well as raising awareness on the importance of sustainability and inspiring change, AKTI’s NET ZERO Program is also working in synergy with partner organisations including Festivals Malta, Sports Malta, Nature Trust, Eko Skola, Zibel and GSD Marketing Ltd. to inspire all ages and interest groups to work towards a Net Zero, sustainable future.
As a further incentive HORECA members who join the Net Zero Responsible Business Network will be invited to put forward their plans for change. 20 members will be awarded €500 each, as a support for the implementation of their green project. It’s win-win for everyone.
Get in touch and join the network to help prevent climate chaos! Send an email to [email protected] or join AKTI’s social media for more information. Act now!
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