Academic receives top environmental award for his sustainability efforts

Academic Prof. Paul J. Pace has received the 2026 Buonamico Award, one of the highlights of the ERA Awards to recognise educators, conservationists, organisations and institutions for their contribution and work for the environment.

The  Environment and Resources Authority said the award had been handed to Prof. Pace in recognition of his long-standing contribution to education for sustainable development.

Prof. Paul J. Pace.

"As a professor at the University of Malta, he played a key role in shaping environmental education policy and practice, including through the establishment of the Centre for Environmental Education and Research and his involvement in developing national strategies for education for sustainable development. His work also includes curriculum development, teacher support, international collaborations and public awareness initiatives on sustainability," ERA said.

The Buonamico Award was presented by President Myriam Spiteri Debono who, in her speech, emphasised the importance of these awards not only as recognition for the respective entities and individuals, but also as a clear message regarding environmental protection as a collective duty.

During the event, the Special Recognition Award was presented to Angelique Lofaro for her commitment to wildlife conservation and environmental awareness.

Lofaro is a dedicated volunteer with Nature Trust Malta and, since joining the organisation in 2016, has been actively involved in wildlife conservation, with particular emphasis on protecting sea turtles.

Her 2019 proposal to organise structured patrols for turtle nests developed into a coordinated network of volunteers covering beaches across Malta and Gozo, strengthened during nesting seasons. She is also involved in wildlife rescue and rehabilitation work and is currently carrying out research on hedgehog health

Several entities and organisations were also recognised for their contribution to Maltese biodiversity and the environment.

The Corporate Award for Environmental Innovation and Sustainability was awarded to the HSBC Malta Foundation for the sustainable upgrade project of the HSBC Qormi Hub. The project introduced energy-efficient systems, renewable energy solutions, water conservation measures and smart building technologies. These led to a significant reduction in energy consumption and carbon emissions and serve as a practical example of sustainable upgrades in Malta’s built environment.

The Environmental Stewardship Award was awarded to the Heritage Parks Federation for its restoration work at ir-Ramla tal-Mixquqa (Golden Bay). The project has focused on restoring sand dune habitats through ecological restoration interventions, removal of invasive species, planting of native vegetation and public engagement initiatives. These efforts helped the recovery of sensitive coastal ecosystems and strengthened the protection of associated biodiversity.

The Green Public Leadership Award was awarded to the Malta Food Agency for the Żomm! Tarmix initiative, a digital platform designed to facilitate the redistribution of surplus food to voluntary organisations. Since its launch in 2025, the platform has helped redistribute more than 250 tonnes of food, supporting several organisations while reducing food waste and promoting circular economy practices.

Finally, the Green School Scheme Award was presented to Our Lady Immaculate School (Ħamrun) for its proposal to develop a sustainable outdoor learning environment beyond the traditional classroom setting. The project includes biodiversity-enhancing features, rainwater harvesting systems, composting facilities, waste separation infrastructure and outdoor educational spaces, all designed to integrate sustainability into everyday school life. ERA will support the project’s implementation with funding of up to €10,000.

ERA Chairman Vincent Cassar said that this edition of the ERA Awards once again highlighted the exceptional environmental initiatives being carried out across the country. He stressed the diversity, innovation and creativity demonstrated by these projects, which reflect the growing commitment of individuals, organisations and communities towards environmental protection and sustainability.

Those present for the event included Energy and Environment Minister Miriam Dalli.