Sustainable Tourism Law

LEGAL PROVISIONS PERTAINING TO SUSTAINABLE TOURISM 253 work to introduce sustainable measures, whilst there is no extra cost thereto or minimum cost. Indeed, the more the hotel industry becomes aware as to how one can contribute to sustainable improvements, the more likely are the criteria to be implemented and attain the following objectives: 1. to protect the environment – whereby it ensures that tourism would have a low impact on natural resources, particularly in protected areas. The environment benefits by minimizing the damage thereto, to its flora, fauna, habitats, water, living marine resources, energy use and contamination; 2. to promote and improve social issues and preserve the nation’s culture … and this is achieved by enacting legal provisions which aim to enhance and improve the social structure or culture of the community, whilst promoting respect of local cultures and traditions. Consequently, this involves stakeholders (individuals, communities, tour operators, government institutions) in all phases of planning, development, and monitoring, and it educates stakeholders about their respective roles. 3. to contribute to the economic well-being of the community, generating sustainable and equitable income for local communities and as many other stakeholders as possible. XXII. COMPULSORY ENVIRONMENTAL CONTRIBUTION However, as the Eco Certification initiative from the Malta Tourism Authority exists on a rather voluntary basis (and to date only 16% of the accommodation sector has applied for it), in June 2016 the Maltese Government extended the eco contribution to the provisions of the tourist accommodation sector. The objective of the Eco-Contribution Act 44 is “ to make provision for the imposition of an eco-contribution on products which result in waste and to provide for matters ancillary or incidental thereto ” . The Malta Tourism Authority website explains that the environment contribution is intended to improve quality throughout the tourism chain and that “ all revenue generated from this initiative will be directed solely and exclusively to upgrade and embellish the local infrastructure in touristic areas around the Maltese islands ” 45 . Indeed, a wide concept which could mean practically everything. 44 Chapter 473 of the Laws of Malta. 45 http://www.mta.com.mt/environmentalcontribution.