Understanding the trends behind the headlines.

Circular economy is becoming an increasingly important business priority for Malta's hospitality sector. As waste volumes continue to rise and new regulations come into force, hotels, restaurants and catering operators have an opportunity to reduce costs, improve efficiency and strengthen resilience by preventing waste before it is created. The article explores practical ways hospitality businesses can redesign procurement, operations and collaboration models to retain value within the business, while preparing for upcoming local and EU sustainability requirements. It also highlights the role of data and measurement in transforming waste from a disposal issue into a strategic management tool.

On 26 February 2025, the European Commission introduced the Omnibus Regulation—a legislative package revising core elements of the European Green Deal. It amends the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), and the Taxonomy Regulation. The goal: reduce reporting burdens for SMEs and mid-sized firms, streamline compliance, and boost competitiveness in a growth-oriented EU regulatory environment.

On 22 October 2025, the European Parliament rejected the mandate for the proposed Omnibus Regulation, a key simplification initiative under the European Green Deal. This move delays progress and sends the proposal back to plenary debate on 11–13 November, where amendments may be reopened.