As its name suggests, the Cleansing and Maintenance Division (CMD) is responsible for keeping the island clean and well-maintained. Its duties include cleaning arterial roads, removing illegally dumped waste, clearing culverts, and handling the unfortunate task of removing dead animals. The division also keeps the island’s beaches clean, which involves sifting sand to filter out buried debris and removing larger waste from the surrounding area.

In addition, the division oversees the maintenance of public spaces, including the upkeep of public restrooms, grass cutting, and the installation and care of beach furniture, among other essential tasks.

In a push towards sustainability, the CMD has converted a significant portion of its fleet to fully electric vehicles and machinery, including passenger cars, street sweepers of various sizes, and pavement sweepers.

The division is also upgrading its technology across the board, incorporating advanced electric robotic equipment, such as electric street sweepers and scrubbers.

Looking ahead, CMD has even more innovative projects in development, including the use of artificial intelligence and other cutting-edge technologies. One exciting project currently in the testing phase involves AI-powered litter detection!

While it's encouraging to see a dedicated division and new technologies working to keep Malta clean, the responsibility ultimately lies with every citizen to do their part. This means properly disposing of litter after outdoor gatherings and, if no bins are available nearby, holding onto it until they can dispose of it responsibly at home. Keeping the environment clean is a shared effort!

What are you doing to help keep Malta clean?