Environmental academic Prof Paul J. Pace honoured with the 2026 Buonamico Awards

The Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) recognised educators, conservationists, organisations and institutions for their environmental contributions and actions in a special night held at the Verdala Palace.The Awards are held under the patronage of President Myriam Spiteri Debono, and highlight outstanding contributions to environmental protection, sustainability, biodiversity conservation and environmental education across our country, ERA said Saturday.Minister for Energy, the Environment and the Regeneration of the Grand Harbour Miriam Dalli and Parliamentary Secretary for Animal Welfare Alicia Bugeja Said were also present for the ceremony.This year the most prestigious award of the night, The Buonamico Award was presented to Prof. Paul J. Pace in recognition of his long-standing contribution to Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). As a professor at the University of Malta, he has played a pivotal role in shaping environmental education policy and practice, including the establishment of the Centre for Environmental Education and Research and his involvement in national ESD strategies. His work also spans curriculum development, teacher support, international collaborations and public outreach on sustainability.The Buonamico Award was presented by Spiteri Debono who, in her speech, highlighted the importance of these awards, not only as a recognition to the respective entities and individuals, but also by delivering a clear message with regards to the protection of the environment as a collective duty.The President described the ERA Awards as an added value, showcasing the holistic vision in the protection of the environment, which should guide the environmental policy we implement, for the present and future good of our country.This night also saw Angelique Lofaro being presented with the Special Recognition Award, for her commitment to wildlife conservation and environmental awareness. Lofaro is a dedicated volunteer with Nature Trust Malta. Since joining the organisation in 2016 she has been actively involved in wildlife conservation, with a particular focus on sea turtle protection. Her proposal for structured turtle nest patrols in 2019 has since developed into a coordinated volunteer network covering beaches across Malta and Gozo, strengthened by additional volunteers during nesting seasons. She is also engaged in wildlife rescue and rehabilitation efforts and is currently conducting research on hedgehog health.Further recognition was also given to entities and organisations for their contribution to Maltese biodiversity and environment. The Corporate Award for Environmental Innovation and Sustainability was awarded to the HSBC Malta Foundation for the sustainable retrofit of the HSBC Qormi Hub. The project introduced energy-efficient systems, renewable energy solutions, water conservation measures and smart building technologies, significantly reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions, and serving as a practical example of sustainable upgrading within Malta's built environment.The Environmental Stewardship Award was presented to the Heritage Parks Federation for its long-term restoration work at ir-Ramla tal-Mixquqa (Golden Bay). Since 2015, the project has focused on the rehabilitation of coastal sand dune habitats through habitat restoration, removal of invasive species, planting of native vegetation and public engagement initiatives. These efforts have supported the recovery of sensitive coastal ecosystems and strengthened 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 redistribute surplus food to voluntary organisations. Since its launch in 2025, the platform has facilitated the redistribution of over 250 tonnes of food, supporting dozens of organisations while reducing food waste and advancing circular economy practices.Finally, the Green School Scheme Award was presented to Our Lady Immaculate School (Hamrun) for its winning proposal to develop a sustainable outdoor learning environment within the school grounds. The project includes biodiversity enhancement features, rainwater harvesting systems, composting facilities, waste separation infrastructure and outdoor learning spaces, all designed to integrate sustainability into everyday school life. ERA will support the implementation of the project with funding of up to 10,000.ERA Chairman Perit Vincent Cassar noted that this edition of the ERA Awards once again highlighted the outstanding environmental initiatives being undertaken across the country. He emphasised the diversity, innovation and creativity demonstrated by the winning projects, which reflect the growing commitment of individuals, organisations and communities towards environmental stewardship and sustainability.