The “Zero Waste HoReCa – Seed Funding Competition Awards 2025” have been officially presented, celebrating outstanding efforts to promote sustainable practices within Malta’s tourism sector.
The competition, organised by AKTI Project and Research Centre with the support of The Coca-Cola Foundation and GSD, aims to encourage the sustainable operation of businesses within the Hospitality, Restaurants and Catering (HoReCa) industry.
The awards ceremony took place on 22 January 2026 at the Municipality of Birgu, a key partner for this phase of the project. A total seed fund of €10,000 was shared among 15 small tourism enterprises and NGOs, recognised for their proposals introducing best practices and infrastructure improvements to enhance sustainability within their operations.
The competition forms part of the wider Zero Waste HoReCa programme, implemented by AKTI Project and Research Centre with the support of The Coca-Cola Foundation. This year’s winners stood out among the programme’s 225 active network members, reflecting the initiative’s mission to drive the green transition of Malta’s tourism industry towards a more sustainable future.
Environmental responsibility, sustainability, innovation, and social responsibility were the key criteria distinguishing the awarded proposals.
The Zero Waste HoReCa programme aims to strengthen sustainability and economic empowerment within the HoReCa sector by providing businesses with tools and guidance to:
- reduce and recycle waste,
- conserve water and energy,
- and procure supplies sustainably.
Through these actions, participating businesses reduce their environmental footprint and operational costs, enhance economic resilience, and support the creation of new employment opportunities.
Now in its third consecutive year, the programme continues to grow steadily, with HoReCa businesses increasingly adopting sustainable practices that deliver measurable environmental and economic benefits. With more than 225 active members, the Zero Waste HoReCa Network represents the first initiative of its kind in Malta, supported scientifically by AKTI Project and Research Centre.
During the ceremony, Birgu was officially declared a Sustainable Tourism Community, marking an important milestone under the Zero Waste HoReCa project and reinforcing the locality’s commitment to sustainability.
The event was organised within the framework of the Zero Waste HoReCa project, implemented by AKTI Project and Research Centre with the support of The Coca-Cola Foundation.
For more information about the Zero Waste HoReCa programme, please visit Net Zero HoReCa – GSD – THE GENERAL SOFT DRINKS CO.LTD & https://www.akti.org.cy/projects_research/zero-waste-horeca-in-cyprus-and-malta/
About AKTI Project and Research Centre
AKTI Project and Research Centre is a non-governmental, non-profit organisation based in Nicosia, Cyprus. Established in 2000, AKTI works to raise environmental awareness and promote sustainable development through applied environmental research, education and vocational training, coastal and marine management, public outreach, and advocacy.
About The Coca-Cola Foundation
The mission of The Coca-Cola Foundation is to make a difference in communities worldwide where The Coca-Cola Company operates and where its people live and work. The Foundation supports innovative initiatives addressing global challenges with a measurable and lasting impact, focusing on access to safe water, climate resilience, circular economy, economic empowerment, disaster preparedness, and community development. Since its establishment in 1984, The Coca-Cola Foundation has awarded over US$1.5 billion in grants worldwide.
