As in the previous funding round, environment continues to be the largest priority for the Grants in Malta. With the aim of increasing renewable energy production, there will be investments to develop a production plant for algae-derived bio-fuel which will reduce CO2 emissions from waste management. There will also be a project to develop a national oil-spill contingency system, in cooperation with relevant Norwegian stakeholders.
Support will continue for cultural heritage with a project to develop a new environmental management system for the Hal-Saflieni Hypogeum World Heritage Site. This is the only prehistoric underground temple in the world, dating from 2500-3000 B.C.
Within the justice sector, there will be a project to improve correctional services through the re-organisation of the Young Offenders’ Unit of Rehabilitation Services (YOURS), including staff training
There will also be a project on capacity-building in the public sector, possibly in cooperation with Norwegian stakeholders.
Funding for the NGO sector in Malta will be a new programme which will address the specific needs of migrants, as well as gender and domestic violence. There will also be new funding to social partners.