Globally recognised for her expertise in urban planning and sustainability, Marina Matashova recently visited Malta, bringing her innovative approach to environmentally conscious development to centre stage. Her visit coincided with Quad Central’s LEED Platinum certification celebration, an achievement that highlights Malta’s growing role in sustainable design and construction.

During her visit, Dr Matashova engaged in dialogues with architects, engineers, and business leaders, and shared actionable strategies for integrating sustainability into urban landscapes. Drawing on a wealth of experience from projects across Russia, China, India, and the USA, Dr. Matashova emphasized how sustainable cities can deliver benefits to both businesses and communities.

 Encouraging developments that blend residential, commercial, and recreational spaces can significantly reduce car dependency, lower emissions, and foster vibrant, walkable neighbourhoods. For Malta, this approach is especially valuable, given its limited land area, enabling efficient resource use while creating dynamic, interconnected community hubs. Quad Central exemplifies this vision, integrating office spaces, retail areas, and recreational zones within a single, eco-conscious development.

 “Sustainability goes beyond individual buildings; it’s about designing with an understanding of how ecosystems, communities, and technology are interconnected. By staying curious, collaborating across fields, and staying relevant in design and concept, we can create solutions that are both innovative and deeply rooted in the unique needs and opportunities of each community. Frameworks like LEED are valuable tools for measuring and enhancing impact, but sustainable design is an ongoing journey – one of continuous learning, innovation, and adapting to new challenges,” said Dr Matashova during her presentation to the Malta Chamber of Architects..

The expert also added that the future of sustainable urbanism lies in regenerative design – restoring ecosystems and enhancing community resilience. Malta can lead by integrating open spaces, smart energy systems, and carbon-neutral buildings, while leveraging its compact scale to pioneer blue-green infrastructure and pedestrian-first urban areas.

 By investing in eco-friendly developments such as green roofs, rain gardens, and energy-efficient buildings, businesses can reduce operational costs (e.g., lower energy and water bills) while attracting environmentally conscious customers. Similarly, creating public spaces with sustainable landscaping and stormwater management systems can boost tourism, raise local property values, and instill a sense of pride in the community.

Quad Central leveraged green infrastructure by incorporating energy-efficient systems, green roofs, rainwater harvesting, and sustainable building materials, earning LEED Platinum certification. These features reduce environmental impact, lower operating costs, and create a vibrant, eco-conscious space for businesses and communities.

Looking ahead, there is an immense potential for Malta to become a model of sustainable urban innovation. Through continued collaboration, innovation, and the use of sustainable practices, it is possible to shape spaces and cities that balance progress with sustainability.