Insights

Sustainable buildings in Malta

Catherine Hurley

Building technology improvements and building with a sustainable and efficient mindset can assist the construction industry to mitigate its environmental impact.

Sustainable buildings are structures that are designed, constructed, and operated in a manner that minimizes their environmental impact and maximizes their energy efficiency. These buildings are not only better for the environment, but they also save money on energy costs and provide a healthier living and working space for the people inside.

Consider the fitting of insulation, which helps both in hot summers and when the weather gets cold. The investment in insulation results in less use of heating and cooling for the space. It also helps protect against the negative impact of the humid environment in Malta, especially when combined with effective waterproofing.

Efficient use of water is also an important aspect of sustainable building. This can include the use of low-flow toilets, showerheads and taps, as well as the use of greywater systems to reuse water from sinks, showers, and washing machines for irrigation or toilet flushing. Saving and storing water is something which has been done throughout the ages in Malta and for good reason. It is important that we view water as the useful commodity that it is.