Grantee: ACT – Malta

Project duration: September 2023 – September 2024 

 

The Challenge

Malta’s forest land cover stands at around 1% (Eurostat report, March 2021). The effects of climate change are increasingly evident, with rising temperatures and prolonged periods of scorching heat. This is further exacerbated in Malta’s densely populated, built-up regions due to the lack of green spaces.

Native plant species are under continuous pressure from habitat loss, fragmentation, and invasive alien species that outcompete local trees and shrubs. Pollution and soil contamination further degrade these fragile ecosystems. Conserving and restoring native species is therefore vital for maintaining biodiversity, ecosystem health, and the many social and economic benefits they provide to Malta.

The Solution

ACT is on a mission to regenerate Malta’s native flora through creative, community-driven approaches that foster awareness, participation, and collaboration. At the heart of their work is the sowing, growing, and planting of native flora to restore Malta’s urban and rural ecosystems.

MEF is supporting ACT in acquiring the resources and tools needed to implement best practices and innovative conservation techniques, strengthening their long-term infrastructure. This support allows the team to dedicate more time to community engagement initiatives, inspiring and empowering individuals to take part in positive environmental change.

This project contributes to the conservation of Maltese trees and shrubs with unique genetic traits found nowhere else in the world. With the right care during their early years, these species can develop the resilience needed to withstand the impacts of climate change. By promoting native flora, we are not only preserving Malta’s natural heritage, but also reducing costs associated with establishment, monitoring, and maintenance — as well as lowering health and energy expenses through the creation of greener, cooler spaces.

Project Outcomes

The project delivered these key outcomes:

• Worked directly to preserve, protect, and regenerate the terrestrial environment and help Malta adapt to climate change. 
• Raised people’s awareness of the natural world and its value. 
• Promoted and supported collective action. 
• Created best practices for conservation methods tailored to Malta’s environment. 
• Helped businesses and consumers to act more sustainably.