The Malta Sociological Association welcomes the Gozo Climate Neutral Plan and its recognition of the importance of governance, coordination, accountability, and long-term planning in achieving climate neutrality.

The Association particularly notes the proposed Governance framework, including the establishment of a Carbon Control Committee tasked with monitoring emissions and assisting implementation. While these measures are important, the Malta Sociological Association believes that governance processes should also systematically integrate the analysis of social impacts arising from climate transition measures.

Climate neutrality policies have important social dimensions relating to quality of life, mobility, accessibility, affordability, employment, tourism, community well-being, social inequalities, and everyday practices. Measures concerning transport, land use, energy, waste, and tourism may generate both intended and unintended social consequences for different communities and social groups in Gozo.

The Malta Sociological Association therefore recommends that Social Impact Assessment (SIA) and ongoing social impact monitoring are mainstreamed within the governance structure of the Plan. This should include:

• the assessment of social impacts of proposed measures prior to implementation;

• ongoing monitoring of social outcomes during implementation;

• meaningful stakeholder and community participation;

• attention to social justice, inclusion, and equity in climate transition processes.

The Association believes that integrating social impact analysis into governance structures would strengthen evidence-based policymaking and contribute towards a more socially sustainable and inclusive climate transition for Gozo.