The Energy and Water Agency (EWA) participated in the REEValue International Conference: Decarbonising European Value Chains, which brought together European partners, policymakers, and industry leaders to exchange innovative solutions for reducing emissions and improving efficiency across the food, beverage, and logistics value chains.
This two-day conference opened with a technical session and a live demonstration of the REEValue online platform, developed by the project partners. The platform enables businesses to track energy consumption, identify efficiency opportunities, and access tailored financing solutions to support sustainable investments.
Real-world case studies were presented by Sammontana (Italy), 9WhiteDeer Brewery (Ireland), and Farsons (Malta). Representatives shared practical approaches to reducing carbon footprints while maintaining competitiveness, demonstrating how circular practices and collaborative supply chain strategies can deliver measurable environmental and economic benefits.
Financing the transition emerged as a central theme during the conference. A dedicated session highlighted the vital role of green investments in scaling up sustainable practices. Representatives from the European Investment Bank, Forvis Mazars, the Malta Business Bureau (MBB), and the Enterprise Europe Network shared mechanisms that support businesses in advancing from pilot initiatives to full-scale implementation.
Delegates also participated in a cross-border networking session, followed by a hands-on Value Chain Workshop chaired by REEValue partners and moderated by MBB. The workshop explored practical topics such as procurement approaches, collaboration models, and policy measures that can help businesses adopt and expand sustainable practices.
Malta’s Contribution
Inġ. Charles Buttigieg, Chief Policy Officer at EWA, emphasised Malta’s commitment to energy and water efficiency in industry. He stated that “sustainability and profitability can go hand in hand”, particularly in the food and beverage manufacturing sector, where efficiency gains strengthen both competitiveness and resilience.
As project coordinator, EWA plays a strategic role in REEValue, ensuring that Malta is not only represented at the European level but is also actively contributing to solutions for value chain decarbonisation. The agency’s participation in Cork reflects its broader mission to align Malta’s national strategies with Europe’s transition towards a low-carbon economy.
What’s Next?
Following the success of the international conference in Cork, REEValue is bringing the discussion closer to home with an upcoming workshop in Malta.
Organised by EWA and MBB, this workshop will provide participants with practical insights on reducing energy costs and emissions, exploring funding opportunities, and connecting with experts and businesses across the food and transport value chains.