Following several media reports, ERA would like to clarify that the application that was determined by the board regarding works at Blue Lagoon in Comino was received following action taken by ERA, whereby the works that were being undertaken were in breach of a clearance issued by ERA.

The ERA Board’s decision was taken on the grounds that the proposed continuation of works included mitigation measures to curb environmental damage and to continue the works in a manner that does not impinge on the natural integrity of the area. The existing passageway formed part of the established network of passageways on Comino.

Following an in-depth evaluation of the overall situation on the site, the proposed works in the environmental application were recommended for approval subject that these are undertaken in line with the conditions proposed in the environmental permit. ERA has imposed a specific permit condition to provide a Restoration Plan for remedial works on the area that was impacted by works carried out so far and prior to the issuing of the environmental permit. The objective of the required restoration plan is to reinstate the impacted area to its former natural state and is to be submitted within one month. Permit conditions have also been included, such that these works are closely monitored by an ecological monitor. This shall be nominated by the applicant and approved by ERA. Additional conditions include hoarding and installation of dust containment measures both on land and at sea.

The permit will allow the commenced works to continue in a manner that takes into account the importance of the site and include the necessary mitigation measures on any residual impacts on the environment.

13 April 2021

Two guidebooks on flora and fauna have been launched to enable citizens and tourists to understand and appreciate the biodiversity at the Majjistral Nature and History Park.

During the presentation of the books by Minister for Energy, Enterprise and Sustainable Development Miriam Dalli and Minister for the Environment, Climate Change and Planning Aaron Farrugia, it was explained how the books will serve as a guide for the flora and fauna that can be found at the park.

To facilitate the use of the books, the flora guidebook is divided according to the colour of the flowers. The fauna guidebook is divided according to the type of creature. Complementing the photographs are descriptions, providing the information that goes hand in hand with what visitors can see at the park.

The educational books also tackle the protection of the ecosystems and geology.

Minister Aaron Farrugia said that Malta, also through the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA), is addressing various aspects linked with biodiversity.

“Biodiversity conservation and proper management of our ecosystems is an integral part of our work towards climate change mitigation“, said Minister Farrugia, while explaining that for this reason, and in order to increase awareness on the natural heritage of the park, the ERA sponsored the publication of these books on the flora and fauna found at the Majjistral Park, including a number of unique species found only in the Maltese islands.

He added that various works are also ongoing by Ambjent Malta and other entities to further enhance the biodiversity of the Majjistral Park, an area of significant historical, archaeological and environmental value.

Minister Miriam Dalli described the publication of these books as part of the effort to encourage people – in particular children – to learn more about Malta’s natural habitat.

“We want to encourage children to explore and learn about biodiversity from walks in nature parks“, said Minister Dalli. “Through these publications we want to help educate our children and understand the importance of protecting biodiversity. The flora of the park has adapted to the harsh conditions of scarce soil, lack of water, extreme heat and strong winds.”

She added that the flora gives life to many creatures, which can grow, nest and thrive in this area.

From his end, Majjistral Park Chairperson Sammy Vella said that the park serves as a recreational spot for visitors, an inspiration to artists and a research ground for scientists. This is because it offers material for research on untouched natural ranges. “It is therefore important that everyone remains sensitive to the environment surrounding them, and follow the established paths“, said Mr Vella.

ERA Team Manager Stephen Saliba highlighted that the authority not only supports NGOs in the running of parks through the provision of technical guidance, but also assists through funding for the implementation of educational material for the general public.

The books have been published in both Maltese and English and can be purchased from the Majjistral Park Visitors Centre.

1 April 2021

As part of its commitments towards environment protection, new CCTV cameras as well as structures aimed at reducing physical damage to the environment are being installed in selected Natura 2000 sites and protected areas in Malta.

A new CCTV camera that has been installed in Selmun over the past few days has been vandalised yesterday. The CCTV camera in question, which had just been installed in the vicinity of the Fort Campbell area, is part of a network of CCTV cameras installed by the Environment and Resources Authority and Ambjent Malta in order to increase the vigilance in areas which are protected for their natural importance and beauty.

The Environment and Resources Authority admonishes such acts of vandalism and is currently working closely with the Police to take all the necessary actions to trace the offenders.

ERA would like to appeal to the public to report any information related to this act of vandalism and any other crimes on the environment on 2292 3500.

6 March 2021

The management and enforcement at the l-Għadira s-Safra and l-Iskoll tal-Għallis site will be strengthened, with further provisions related to the regulation of activities within this protected area.

This was announced by Minister for the Environment, Climate Change and Planning Aaron Farrugia, who explained that a new protection notice issued by ERA this week will address the expansion of the protected area effected by ERA and the adjacent Għallis Rocks, enabling ERA to further enforce issues related to activities which have impacted the site, including the dumping of waste material, open fires and barbeques throughout the entire site as well as issues pertaining to the exploitation of species and the introduction of non-native species.

The Minister explained that the whole area supports a Natura 2000 site with unique transitional coastal wetland and maritime coastal communities which support various species of flora and fauna dependent on brackish waters during the wet season.

The Minister reiterated his commitment to protect key habitats and species to ensure their conservation for future generations. “Nature and biodiversity are not just a nice-to-have – they are essential. Essential because the quality of our air and our food, as well as the state of our economy and health, depends on it. To protect this, we need to also provide adequate protection and care to sites of ecological importance,” he said.

The new regulations will thus ensure further protection through the conservation and management of the natural habitats and species within the site and enable the easier implementation of conservation measures in the area.

The protected area is managed by Kaċċaturi San Ubertu (KSU) through a management agreement by ERA, which includes the implementation of various conservation measures, including amongst others restoration of wetland and maritime habitats and species, forestation and awareness actions.

To date, several interventions were carried out by KSU, including daily routine administration of the site, monitoring of biotic and abiotic features, tree-planting, removal of invasive alien species, installation of small temporary fresh-water ponds, as well as daily administration and monitoring amongst others.

Ambjent Malta has also offered its assistance with respect to the removal of invasive alien species and is also assisting KSU and ERA in a project whereby the site could host larger water bodies that could support a variety of water related species, including birds.

N.B. This press release was issued by DOI on behalf of The ministry for the Environment, Climate Change and Planning (MECP)

22 February 2021

An exhibition has been set up at the Malta National Aquarium to raise awareness of local marine habitats and the importance of their collective protection.

This exhibition, titled ‘Malta’s Blue Wonders’ and set up by the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA), features Malta’s underwater heritage through photography and is open to the general public for free. It features several new habitats and species around the Maltese islands that have been discovered through the LIFE BaĦar Project.

This was announced by Minister for the Environment, Climate Change and Planning Aaron Farrugia who spoke about the importance of the marine environment for our islands and our economy and explained that ERA has designated over 35% of Malta’s waters as Marine Protected Areas which have also been added to the European network of Natura 2000 sites.

“Malta’s dependency on sea activities remains comparatively high compared to other member states due to the island’s small land area, which therefore needs to be exploited as much as possible to generate wealth and employment for the benefit of all citizens. The blue economy sector contributes approximately 15% to Malta’s overall economy and generates over 27,000 jobs”.

The minister explained that it is vital to strike a balance between economic growth and environmental preservation, also because the two are intrinsically linked. He said that our country relies in part on the blue economy which allows us to develop our resources and run important industries and sectors such as transport, tourism, and fishing, while also preserving our intangible resources such as traditional ways of life and our coastal resilience.

“The protection of the marine environment is one of the main functions of the Environment and Resources Authority. This exhibition is intended to expand the knowledge on the need of protecting the marine environment and the importance of the involvement of every one of us in this process,” ERA CEO Michelle Piccinino said.

The public is encouraged to visit this free exhibition at the Malta National Aquarium to experience and appreciate the magnificence of our marine surroundings. This exhibition is open daily from February 18 to May 16 between 10 am to 6 pm all week long and no bookings are required.

N.B. This press release was issued by DOI on behalf of The ministry for the Environment, Climate Change and Planning (MECP)

18 February 2021

In your work, keep Malta’s reputation at the forefront, even internationally – The President

​President of Malta George Vella said that the work being done in favour of the quality of life, sustainability and the protection of the environment in today’s world should keep the country’s reputation at its centre, even internationally.

When visiting, together with Mrs Vella, the agency responsible for the environment and resources in the Maltese islands, the ERA, the President praised the valuable work being carried out by the agency and acknowledged its great responsibilities in our society. The environment is a topic that draws great interest and public reaction, and therefore the agency plays a central role in everyday life.

He stressed that the agency’s work is not only relevant at the national level but is also fundamental for the country to contribute to globally established goals, such as the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. He mentioned climate change and other related environmental challenges, such as high temperatures, water levels, the threat to thousands of species around the world and uncontrolled dumping. He said that the role of the Ministry for the Environment and the ERA is fundamental in shaping policies as well as strategies to address these issues, but above all in enforcing a strong legislative framework which must be respected at all times and in all cases.

The President listed recent initiatives of the agency, including the drawing up of the National Strategy for the Environment, which will serve as a framework for national plans, policies and programmes, and praised the fact that this strategy is looking towards the future in a way that ensures sustainable planning. He mentioned that work is being done on the renewal of the Biodiversity Strategy, on a strategy relating to Invasive Alien Species, and on regulations relating to environmental impact assessments, marine environment conservation, use of single-use plastics and air pollution. These are all issues that need to be addressed as soon as possible in order to protect the present and future of the environment.

The President touched upon the topic of applications and permits. “I want to stress the importance of this responsibility that you are carrying. There must be no deviation from what the law requires, with all the integrity and diligence required of each and every one of the enforcement officers,” said the President.

“At the same time, the work to increase the efficiency in the processing of applications and permits must continue so that the public continues to be well-served. Always uphold the principles of transparency and accountability when carrying out your duties.”

President Vella thanked all the officials and employees of the ERA and the Ministry for the Environment for their contribution to further improving the quality of life in our country.
“I am sure that future generations will be grateful for what we are doing now to protect our planet, which is ultimately the legacy we must pass on to them,” concluded President Vella.

During this visit, the Minister for the Environment, Climate Change and Planning Aaron Farrugia, the Chairperson of ERA Professor Victor Axiaq and the Chief Executive of ERA Perit Michelle Piccinino also addressed those present.

At the end of the visit, the ERA presented a donation to the President and Mrs Vella in aid of The Malta Community Chest Fund Foundation.

28 January 2021

Agreement between government and Nature Trust Malta for better management of Chadwick Lakes

Through an agreement signed by the Energy and Water Agency (EWA), the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA), and Nature Trust Malta, the eNGO Nature Trust Malta has been given the responsibility of managing Wied il-Qlejgħa, more commonly known as Chadwick Lakes.

For the past two years, the Energy and Water Agency has been implementing a regeneration and rehabilitation project in this valley, a €5 million project co-financed by European funds which is expected to be completed later this year.

The agreement was signed during a press conference addressed by Minister for Energy, Enterprise and Sustainable Development Miriam Dalli, Minister for the Environment, Climate Change and Planning Aaron Farrugia, and Parliamentary Secretary for European Funds Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi.

Minister Miriam Dalli welcomed this agreement as a clear example of how we can safeguard our country’s natural heritage.

“The works being carried out at Chadwick Lakes have uncovered long-buried features that were lost over time. Today, these dams which date back to the 19th Century are being restored to their original purpose of water storage”, stated Minister Dalli.

She also explained how through this agreement with Nature Trust Malta, the government is committing itself to the continuous conservation of Wied il-Qlejgħa, where around 5,000 trees and shrubs will be planted, and invasive species will also be controlled.

“We are committed to taking care of our natural environment and ecosystems while looking at opportunities that may help the financing of research projects on making sustainability sustainable”, concluded Minister Dalli.

Minister Farrugia said that the ERA is participating in this agreement due to the ecological and scientific importance of the site. He announced that the authority has started the process of heightening the protection of the Chadwick Lakes area, which will lead to the implementation of a number of measures intended for the protection of biodiversity in order to conserve, manage and restore the natural environment including the geological, geomorphic and physiographic aspects which make the site one of the most beautiful natural sites in Malta.

Minister Farrugia said that protected zones that are managed effectively are a critical tool for safeguarding the environment and our resilience as a country, conserving natural resources, and sustainable economic success, which will lead to an improvement in quality of life across the board.

Parliamentary Secretary Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi said that the signing of the agreement marks a partnership so that together, we strive towards a common goal – that of providing a better environment whilst taking care of our country’s natural landscape. He explained how the cooperation between the public and the private sector can source additional European funds, as the rehabilitation of this site is considered to be an example of best practice.

The pariamentary secretary also said that, “About €5 million co-financed with European funds are being invested in the regeneration of Wied il-Qlejgħa. This agreement will go a step further whereby we will not just be regenerating the site containing a rich environmental and historical heritage, but we will continue to upkeep and preserve it”.

Meanwhile, EWA CEO Manuel Sapiano said that this project serves as a model for future projects in different locations, particularly in valleys around Malta and Gozo.

He also explained the EWA’s work in Wied il-Qlejgħa during the past months. Amongst other things, rubble which accumulated over time in the valley bed was removed, together with the invasive vegetation the rubble was blocking the watercourse. He explained that for the first time, a bioengineering system was being used – a system which involves the creation of walls using trees. Their purpose is to protect the soil at the side of the valley and therefore, the pathways that have been created will continuing to serve future generations.

Following the press conference, Minister Dalli and Minister Farrugia, together with Parliamentary Secretary Zrinzo Azzopardi visited parts of the valley, where Nature Trust Malta is currently planting several trees. Rabat Mayor Sandro Craus was also present.

 

27 January 2021

The Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) received a request to declare the existing carob trees in Triq San Ġwann Bosco, Dingli (refer to map below) as a Tree Protection Area (TPA) under criteria 4(d) and 4(e) of regulation 6 of the Trees and Woodlands Protection Regulations (SL 549.123).

Whilst acknowledging the relevance of these trees, the Authority noted that for such trees to qualify as TPA as per regulation 6, these trees have to exhibit exceptional particular features.

The carob trees in question are not linked to past specific cultural and historical events and are not considered as a prominent landmark. Moreover, they do not form any peculiar landscape or specific habitat types or features as listed in the Flora, Fauna and Natural Habitats Protection Regulations (SL 549.44) and the copse does not feature any pertinent diversity within its tree formation with no or limited underbrush and no diversity in woodland species.

The Authority also noted that other carob trees present within the area outside the development zone are protected under the Trees and Woodlands Protection Regulations (SL 549.123).

The ERA Board voted not to uphold the proposal by Moviment Graffitti with six votes in favour and two against.

22 January 2021

Dingli Carob trees

The Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) has commissioned a study on the Maltese Freshwater Crab (il-qabru) as part of its commitment to the protection of national species following the designation of the species as the National Invertebrate in Malta in 2018.

In order to ensure focused conservation efforts, ERA and the University of Malta embarked on a study to assess the current status of this species in the Maltese Islands. These studies have identified dedicated management and conservation measures required for the protection of this species. The study further delved on the identification of pressures affecting this species and its habitat. The availability of freshwater remains a critical pressure for this species, with water management practices, including groundwater and surface water abstraction, the modification of the hydrological flow and contamination being considered as pressures threatening this species. The introduction of the invasive alien species, including the crayfish may also expose the freshwater crab to further pressures, which could lead to competition for food and habitat, while also risking to be affected by the spread of diseases carried by the invasive crayfish.

ERA will be taking into consideration the recommendations forwarded by the study for best local freshwater crab conservation management, to ensure the maintenance and improvement of this species conservation status. Mr Darrin Stevens, Deputy Director on Environment and Resources within ERA noted that “the updated and accurate knowledge acquired from this joint study between ERA and the University of Malta, will now be assisting in the development of policy with focused measures and awareness raising to ensure effective conservation of the threatened freshwater crab”.

Prof. Adriana Vella, lead scientist of the Conservation Biology Research Group, at the Department of Biology, University of Malta, who coordinated the national study, added that “This study pioneers the use of various scientific techniques, including molecular genetics, for the necessary conservation investigations linked to such local species in urgent need of tangible protection measures.  The latter will need to see the full cooperation of the public and in particular land owners that are lucky to host such unique creatures of national importance”

It is also noted that such information and research is also relevant in issues pursuant to the current public consultation process on Malta’s Water Catchment Management Plan. Further information on such public consultation process is available on the ERA website.

The Maltese freshwater crab (Maltese: il-qabru; il-granċ tal-ilma ħelu) is the National Invertebrate in Malta, declared as such in 2018 through the Species  Protection (Designation of National Species) Regulations (SL 549.120). The animal is known from a few locations in Malta and Gozo with natural perennial or near-permanent freshwater springs (għejun) capable of holding fresh water for the whole year and is mainly threatened due to scarcity of water resources and drought. The animals are an important component of our biodiversity, with adult crabs mainly foraging at night, preying on smaller animals including snails, but also tadpoles and adult frogs, but is also known to scavenge on various remains, including decaying plant matter. Living to a maximum of 12 years, the species is known to dig burrows reaching 80cm in depth, with multiple openings so as to provide shelter against predators, drought and floods. The species is protected in Malta since 1993 and various locations where it is found are also protected. It also has interesting cultural implications and has also featured in stamps and the old Maltese 5c coin.

11 December 2020

The Environment and Resources Authority (ERA), has been participating in an Interreg Europe project called WINPOL – Waste Management Intelligent Systems and Policies together with eight (8) other project partners from Spain, Belgium, Greece, Slovenia and Romania. The overarching aim of WINPOL is to improve waste management policies through the use of intelligent equipment and innovative systems for waste disposal and collection, and contribute to waste minimisation in European cities and regions, through improved management procedures and awareness campaigns.

The project has reached the end of Phase 1- the Interregional Learning Phase.  The partners have had various opportunities throughout this phase to:

  • Learn on a number of good practices shared by other partner regions;
  • Participate in thematic seminars;
  • Organise local stakeholders meetings and targeted events to discuss and help increase knowledge on intelligent equipment and related practices; and
  • Attend study visits to understand the situation in the partner territories and see in person the technologies and/or systems applied. Such visits were held in Gijon (Spain), Maribor (Slovenia), Imola (Italy), Antwerp and Ghent (Belgium).

Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic hindered the last few months of this phase, forcing the partners to reschedule the last few study visits, namely in Bergen Norway, and even local meetings/events. Nevertheless, the exchange of experiences was still carried out virtually and achieved fruitful results.

Furthermore, the good practices exchanged by the partners throughout Phase 1 were acknowledged through the publication of a Good Practices Guide. This publication gathers over 26 innovative practices collected all over Europe, including Malta, whereby ERA presented two good practices; The iBins and the Solar compact Bins. The good practise are separated into two categories: “Use of data and technologies to optimise systems” and “Innovative models” and can be explored either by geographical location or by the theme(s) associated to it. These themes cover topics as varied as feedback to citizens, civic amenity sites, fly-tipping clearance, and eco-event, monitoring and decision-making.

In addition, as part of the obligations set out by the project, every project partner, including ERA, were required to draft an action plan with one or more actions inspired by the project. The aim is to transfer these actions into the local context. In total, there will be six Action Plans presented and will be monitored throughout the second phase of the project, commencing December 2020. Each project partner will have two years (until November 2022) to implement their action/s and concretely improve their performances in terms of waste management and sustainability.

For more information:

Phone (+356) 2292 3500

Email [email protected]

The WINPOL project – Waste Management Intelligent Systems and Policies – aims to foster and promote the use of intelligent equipment and planning derived from it, through improved waste management policies, thus contributing to waste minimisation in European cities and regions. Find out more information about the project on www.interregeurope.eu/winp

10 December 2020

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