Human cremation in Malta is regulated under Environmental Permitting (Procedure for Applications and their Determination) Regulations S.L. 549.172 and must comply with the Supporting Document for the Control of Emissions into the Air from Cremation Processes in Malta.
Environmental Permitting
An environmental permit is required before operating a crematorium. Applications may be submitted through the ERIS System. Permits include technical conditions to safeguard the environment.
Key Compliance Measures
Process monitoring: Cremators must be equipped with continuous monitoring systems to record secondary combustion chamber temperatures, oxygen levels, and emissions performance.
Emission limits: Strict limits apply to pollutants such as total particulate matter, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides (NOx), total organic compounds, mercury, hydrogen chloride, and dioxins (PCDD/F).
Best available techniques (BAT): Crematoria must use modern technology and abatement systems, including filtration, activated carbon treatment, and optimized combustion conditions (minimum 850°C and 2 seconds residence time), to minimize harmful emissions.
Recordkeeping and reporting: Operators are required to maintain records of monitoring, maintenance, and compliance, in line with ERA’s supporting document.
Technical Conditions
Chimney design must ensure that pollutant concentrations remain below thresholds set by ERA.
Further Information
Contact the Environmental Permitting Unit for further guidance via customer care.