The need to extend the current national air quality monitoring system has been identified in the recommendations of the report entitled “ The Preliminary Assessment of Air Quality of the Maltese Islands”. The assessment was carried out in August 2002 by the National Environmental Technology Centre (NETCEN) in line with the Article 5 of the Air Quality Framework Directive.
By extending the monitoring system with a further two monitoring stations, MEPA will be in a better position to effectively monitor and report on the quality of air and take appropriate action. The project targets the Public Sector, specifically MEPA who will have the required tools to undertake air quality monitoring of the Maltese territory in line with the provisions of the Air Quality Framework Directive. Air pollution is high in certain urban areas and can be hazardous to human health. A national air monitoring programme is necessary to provide data for decision makers to be used in plans and programmes to improve the air quality situation of the Maltese islands. This will eventually result in an improvement in air quality which will benefit the entire nation.
Objective of the project
The aim of this project is that of extending the national air quality monitoring system to facilitate compliance with the Acquis. This will be achieved by enhancing the present network of air monitoring stations in order to facilitate effective and continuous monitoring of air quality in the Maltese Islands. Besides enabling Malta to comply with the Acquis requirements, data gathered by the stations will also enhance environmental decision making through the development of plans and programs.
Project Description
This project is being implemented following the publication of one competitive contract for the procurement of equipment and technical training of MEPA on the use of equipment.
Activity A
Purchasing and installation of equipment: The supply and installation of the monitoring stations at two locations, Msida and Zejtun.
Activity B
Training of staff by the equipment supplier: The supply contract will also include a measure of training for MEPA staff. The training will focus on the correct use, calibration, handling and general maintenance of the equipment to ensure appropriate duty of care.
Who will benefit?
Maltese citizens in general
How much is being allocated?
€ 390,214
How is the project progressing?
In December 2005, the supply contract was awarded to the French company, Environment SA December 2005 for a total value of LM 166,115. The contract consists of the following:
The delivery, installation, testing and commissioning of two air monitoring stations;
The installation of an air monitoring data management software package on the MEPA systems;
The training of MEPA personnel in the practical aspects of operation of the equipment.
The two stations have been installed in Zejtun and Msida. The training of MEPA personnel was also carried out in June. The project is expected to be completed in the coming weeks.
Structural Funds Programme for Malta 2004-2006.
Project part-financed by the European Union - European Regional Development Fund.
Co-financing rate: 75% EU:25% Government of Malta.
