The European Union's transport policy and its impact on Malta's environment

Abstract

Within the context of high car dependency rates in Malta, negatively affecting the environment and air quality, this research assesses the impacts of the transport policy of the European Union on Malta's environment. Furthermore, the study addresses the viability of increasing the usage of cycling as an alternative method of transportation with the aim of improving air quality standards in Malta. However, a number of barriers hinder the development of a cycling network in most EU countries, particularly in Malta which registers zero per cent bicycle commuters. Notwithstanding this, it is concluded that if driven by the European Union transport policy to follow-up on best practices, Malta will be pushed to implement a long-term cycling policy framework to contribute to a more sustainable transport policy.