GREEN GUIDE EMEA 2023: Malta
Ganado Advocates
Maltese firm Ganado Advocates works across several areas, including environment, renewable energy, waste and ship recycling, and ESG and sustainability regulation.
It has worked closely with the Malta Resources Authority (MRA) on international projects involving aspects of the EU Emissions Trading Scheme. Members of the firm are also involved in the executive committee of MEEREA, a Maltese NGO which promotes discussions on energy-related issues, particularly on sustainable energy policies that emphasise energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy.
The firm has assisted several financial market participants with the preparation of their regulatory disclosures under the EU taxonomy regulation and the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Directive (SFDR). Furthermore, due to Malta’s geographical location, the firm has developed expertise in assisting shipowners with the recycling of ships.
The firm’s key individuals regularly publish articles relating to sustainability: Recently, Nikolai Lubrano authored ‘The E in ESG as The Focus of Recent Regulatory Initiatives’; Jotham Scerri-Diacono published ‘Malta’s Role in Ship Recycling and its Impact on Environmental Protection’; and Nico Fauser wrote a piece titled ‘Captive Insurance – A Tool for ESG Strategy’.
Internal sustainability measures notably include the installation of 30 solar panels in its Valletta office in response to an environmental audit carried out by an independent third party. Besides replacing all its electrical fixtures with energy-efficient LED lighting, the firm takes advantage of an old well which collects approximately 250,000 cubic liters of rainwater annually to provide water for its lavatories and hand basins during the winter months. In March 2022, the firm also launched an e-bike sharing programme promoting a cultural shift towards cycling, and purched e-bikes to be used by staff.
Mamo TCV Advocates
Multidisciplinary Maltese law firm Mamo TCV Advocates has widespread expertise covering a range of ESG-related matters. In an ongoing highlight, the team led by managing partner Michael Psaila is supporting BCRS Malta in the launch of the Maltese government’s beverage container refund scheme, which incentivises the recycling of plastic, glass, and metal. Mikiel Calleja led the advice to local telecommunications company GO throughout the entire process of its 76% acquisition shareholding in SENS innovation group, an energy management company that leverages IOT-based technology to reduce energy consumption for commercial buildings.
Also of note is the firm’s engagement with clients facilitating the green transition in the aviation sector. Other related work includes greenwashing preventative advice and SFDR compliance.
The firm frequently holds webinars focusing on embedding ESG in different industries. It also takes a hands-on approach with many of its lawyers participating in volunteering for a range of social impact and environmental organisations such as the Majjistral National Park.