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Sustainability thrives not just through policies and programmes, but through everyday actions of people who choose to make a difference.

Across departments and disciplines, a group of dedicated individuals is leading by example, weaving a sense of environmental responsibility into everything they do.

From rethinking daily habits to reshaping their professional work, they each offer a powerful reminder that meaningful change begins with personal action. As a campus community, we have much to gain by following in their footsteps.

Meet some of our Sustainability Champions, and see what sustainability truly means to them.

• Prof. Sue Vella, Associate Professor at the Department of Social Policy & Social Work, Faculty for Social Wellbeing

“When I think of sustainability, I believe it challenges us to be the best possible stewards of our social, economic and environmental resources for the wellbeing of future generations. In my daily activities, I try to put sustainability into practice by using alternative means of transport and of energy; avoiding plastic and separating waste; and seeking fair trade options.

As individuals making up the UM community, we can become more sustainable through improved waste management; reducing disposable items and installing more water stations; more local food options on campus; lobbying for improved public transport alternatives to university; and the possibility of a collective campus garden and composting programme.”

• Dr John Ebejer, Senior Lecturer at the Department of Tourism Management, FEMA

“In our household, we are now just two persons. Until a few years ago, my wife and I owned two cars and we each went to work by car. A few years back we decided to sell one car and rely solely on the other. We give lifts to each other to work. When we have errands to run we plan our journeys and decide who is to keep the car for the day.

We both have full time jobs but our hours are fairly flexible. Sometimes one of us has to rely on public transport or walking, but that’s fine. It is more sustainable, less costly and takes up less of our time in car maintenance and upkeep.”

• Dr Karen Mugliett, Head of Department of Health, Physical Education & Consumer Studies, Faculty of Education 

 “For me, sustainability is about making thoughtful choices that balance health, environment, and resources for present and future well-being.

As a Home Economics lecturer and health educator, I champion practical, everyday actions that empower individuals to live well while respecting our planet’s limits.”

• Dr James Cilia, Administrative Director of the Office for Professional Academic Development

“To me, sustainability means using the resources we have today in ways that protect and preserve them for future generations. One way I put sustainability into practice is by cycling almost every day from home to the university and back - a practice that lowers my carbon footprint, reduces traffic and keeps me active.

At UM, we can all become more sustainable by being mindful of how we use resources - whether it's electricity, water, materials, or even time - and by supporting each other in making choices that benefit our community.”

• Dr Antonietta Rosiello, Lecturer at the Department of Business & Enterprise Management, FEMA

“To me, sustainability means achieving a balance between environmental, social, and economic priorities—ensuring that we meet our present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to thrive.

In my daily life, I embrace sustainability by reducing waste, promoting responsible consumption, and embedding sustainable principles into my academic work. As members of the University of Malta, we all have a role to play in shaping a more sustainable future. By adopting greener habits, actively participating in campus initiatives, and fostering a collective sense of environmental responsibility among students and colleagues, we can make a meaningful impact.”

•  Dr Antoine Grima, Head of the Department of Environmental & Resources Law, within the Faculty of Laws

"I see sustainability as humanity’s attempt in reconciling economic development with the environment whilst preserving the well-being of current and future generations."

Stay tuned as more members of UM join this cause!