National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan to 2030
As a Party to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), Malta is required to establish a National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) with the purpose of integrating biodiversity concerns into relevant sectoral or cross-sectoral plans, programmes and policies. The mandate for developing Malta’s NBSAP also stems from EC Council Decision of 25 October 1993 concerning the conclusion of the Convention on Biological Diversity (93/626/EEC), the Convention on Biological Diversity (Incorporation) Regulations (S.L. 549.27), and the Flora, Fauna and Natural Habitats Protection Regulations (S.L. 549.44).
Malta adopted its first NBSAP in 2012, covering the period to 2020. A thorough review of the final status of implementation of the NBSAP to 2020 indicates that 11% (2 out of 19) of the national targets have been exceeded and 42% (8 out of 19) have been achieved. With respect to targets that are reported as partially achieved, these account to 42% (8 out of 19), whereas 5% (1 out of 19) have not been achieved. Further to this, over 90% of the 80 actions within the previous NBSAP are considered to have been either effective or partially effective with respect to implementing the national biodiversity strategy.
The NBSAP to 2030 builds on the foundation established by the previous NBSAP and its achievements. It outlines 79 actions within 22 targets, addressing five key policy areas:
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- Conserving and restoring nature;
- Addressing the drivers of biodiversity loss;
- Using biodiversity sustainably;
- Mainstreaming and awareness raising; and
- Enhancing implementation and cooperation.
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The final version of Malta’s NBSAP is the culmination of a whole of government consultation process. Given its strategic nature, throughout the development of the NBSAP to 2030, ERA actively sought the engagement of all relevant ministries holding remit or responsibility for the areas of public policy that the targets and actions proposed within the NBSAP address. Additionally, the intent and draft NBSAP were subject to public consultation.
This policy document has been approved in line with Article 51 of the Environment Protection Act (Cap. 549).
More information is available from here.
Documents
National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan to 2030 – Approved Policy
Intent and Objectives – Consultation Brief
Intent and Objectives – Public Consultation Submissions & Responses
Draft Policy – Consultation Brief
Draft Policy – Public Consultation Submissions & Responses
