PN MEP Peter Agius has proposed an “Islands Derogation” from the EU’s Emissions Trading System (ETS), claiming the measure could save Malta around €60 million every year in transport-related costs.Agius tabled 86 amendments during the European Parliament’s plenary session in Strasbourg, including a proposal to temporarily reduce the applicable ETS costs on air and maritime transport to and from islands by 50% until 2040.Agius argued that Malta currently faces a disproportionate burden because of its dependence on sea and air connections, saying the additional costs ultimately feed into the cost of living.Citing figures from truck and trailer operators’ association ATTO, his office said around 67,000 containers are transported by sea to and from Malta annually, with ETS costs estimated at €530 per trailer or container. It also cited Central Bank of Malta figures putting additional annual ETS costs on flights to and from Malta at €88 million.“We want to support measures to save the planet for our families and future generations, but these efforts must be proportionate in their impact on islands,” Agius said.His amendments would also seek greater investment in greener maritime transport and more transparency over how ETS revenues are used. The proposed 50% derogation would gradually be phased out, with Agius arguing this would give operators and authorities time to invest in greener transport before 2040.The proposals are amendments and have not yet been adopted, with Agius saying he is working to build support among other MEPs.Would a 50% reduction in ETS costs make a meaningful difference for Malta?•