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Note This document was prepared by the Priority Actions Programme Regional Activity Centre (PAP/RAC) of the Mediterranean Action Plan (MAP-UNEP). The authors of the document are Louis Vella, Christine M. Tanti and Avertano Rolé. Zeljka Skaricic contributed to its general revision and finalisation, and Viktor Popovic designed and prepared the document for printing. The designations employed and the presentation of the material in this document do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the United Nations Environment Programme or the Mediterranean Action Plan concerning the legal status of any state, territory, city or area, or their authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. The views expressed in this document do not necessarily represent the views of the United Nations Environment Programme. © 2005 Priority Actions Programme Regional Activity Centre, Split ISBN 953-6429-56-X This publication may be reproduced in whole or in part in any form of educational and non-profit purposes without special permission from the copyright holder, provided acknowledgement of the source is made. PAP would appreciate receiving a copy of any publication that uses this material as source. No use of this publication may be made for resale or any other commercial purposes whatsoever without prior permission in writing from the copyright holder.
For bibliographic purposes this document may be cited as: PAP/RAC: Coastal Area Management in the Maltese Islands, Priority Actions Programme Regional Activity Centre, Split, 2005.
TABLE OF CONTENTS List of Plates List of Figures List of Tables List of Boxes List of Acronyms ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS PREFACE EXECUTIVE SUMMARY CHAPTER I / Introduction 1. PURPOSE OF THE REPORT 1.1 TRADITION OF ICAM IN MALTA CHAPTER II / The Maltese Coastal Environment 2. THE COASTAL ZONE 2.1 GEOLOGY 2.2 CLIMATE 2.3 COASTAL HABITATS 2.3.1 Coastal wetlands 2.3.2 Sand dunes 2.3.3 Rupestral communities 2.3.4 Low-lying maritime rock communities 2.3.5 Marine benthic zones 2.3.6 Unique microhabitats 2.4 NATURAL COASTAL RESOURCES 2.4.1 Freshwater 2.4.2 Fisheries 2.4.3 Fisheries Conservation zone 2.4.4 Agricultural land 2.4.5 Soils 2.4.6 Salinisation of li�oral agricultural fields 2.5 LANDSCAPE AND NATURAL VALUES 2.5.1 Faults 2.5.2 Shore platforms 2.5.3 Other features 2.5.4 Terracing 2.6 BIODIVERSITY AND PROTECTED AREAS CHAPTER III / Social, cultural and archaeological features of the coastal area 3.1 SOCIO-CULTURAL FEATURES 3.2 MALTA / GOZO GEOGRAPHICAL INDUCED DISTRIBUTIONS 3.3 NORTH / SOUTH CULTURAL INDUCED DISTRIBUTIONS 3.4 COASTAL / INLAND INDUCED DISTRIBUTIONS 3.5 AGRARIAN / INDUSTRIAL DISTRIBUTIONS 3.6 LAND / SEA AS RECREATIONAL SPACES 3.7 RELIGION 3.8 TRANSPORTATION 3.9 TRADITIONAL BELIEFS 3.10 COASTAL ARCHAEOLOGICAL, CULTURAL AND HISTORIC SITES 3.10.1 Marine archaeology CHAPTER IV / Development pressures 4.1 POPULATION OF COASTAL AREAS 4.2 ECONOMIC CHARACTERISTICS 4.3 SOCIAL ISSUES 4.4 URBAN DEVELOPMENT 4.5 AGRICULTURE, FORESTRY AND FISHERIES 4.6 INDUSTRY AND MINING 4.7 INFRASTRUCTURE iv iv v v vi vii ix xi 1 1 1 7 7 7 8 10 10 10 10 11 11 11 12 12 12 13 14 15 15 15 15 16 16 17 17 21 21 21 21 21 22 22 22 23 23 25 25 27 27 29 29 30 30 31 33 i
4.8 TOURISM 4.9 ENERGY CHAPTER V / Environmental and Spatial Impacts 5.1 MARINE POLLUTION 5.2 AIR POLLUTION 5.3 SOIL CONTAMINATION 5.4 POLLUTION OF GROUND WATER 5.5 LANDSCAPE DEGRADATION 5.6 BIODIVERSITY LOSSES 5.7 DAMAGE TO NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES 5.8 WASTES MANAGEMENT 5.9 NOISE CHAPTER VI / Policy responses and practices 6.1 INTRODUCTION 6.2 CURRENT PRACTICES IN COASTAL MANAGEMENT 6.3 POLICY FRAMEWORK 6.4 INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK 6.4.1 Coastal legislation 6.4.2 Existing strategies and policies for ICAM 6.4.3 Existing institutions and responsibilities 6.5 COASTAL MANAGEMENT IN PRACTICE 6.5.1 Introduction 6.5.2 Data collection and management 6.5.3 General conclusions 6.6 INTRODUCTION OF NEW TOOLS AND METHODOLOGIES 6.8 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION 6.9 DISSEMINATION AND EXCHANGE OF EXPERIENCES AND INFORMATION CHAPTER VII / General Issues relating to ICAM 7.1 GENERAL ISSUES 7.2 MAJOR LEGITIMATE EXPECTATIONS 7.3 CULTURAL RESOURCES 7.4 TOURISM DEVELOPMENT IN COASTAL AREAS 7.4.1 Sporting activities 7.5 MARITIME ACTIVITIES 7.6 FISH FARMING 7.7 SECURITY ISSUES 7.8 DESIGN AND PLANNING 7.8.1 Siting of Buildings and Infrastructure 7.8.2 Wind Energy Farms 7.8.3 Land reclamation 7.8.4 Beach Nourishment and Marina Development 7.8.5 Quarrying 7.8.6 Salt Pans 7.8.7 Roads 7.8.8 Promenades 7.8.9 Landscaping 7.8.10 Pipelines and cables 7.8.11 Oil Exploration 7.9 SOLID WASTE COLLECTION AND TREATMENT PROGRAMMES 7.9.1 Li�er 7.10 SEWAGE 7.11 EDUCATION 7.12 RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES 7.12.1 Changes in recreational pa�erns 7.13 HEALTH AND SAFETY ISSUES 7.14 BEACH MANAGEMENT PLANS
34 35 37 37 38 38 39 39 40 40 41 42 45 45 45 46 46 46 47 47 48 48 58 58 59 60 60 61 61 61 62 62 63 63 63 63 63 64 64 64 64 64 65 65 65 65 66 66 66 66 66 66 67 67 67 67
CHAPTER VIII / The Future of ICAM in Malta 8 INTRODUCTION 8.1 LEGAL PROVISIONS 8.2 INSTITUTIONAL PROVISIONS 8.3 PROPOSED FUNCTIONS OF CRAB 8.4 WORKING METHODOLOGY CHAPTER IX / Examples of Coastal Management in practice 9.1 MAP CAMP - THE MALTA PROJECT 9.2 GHAJN TUFFIEHA/RAMLA L-HAMRA 9.3 REGIONAL PROJECT FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF MARINE AND COASTAL PROTECTED AREAS IN THE MEDITERRANEAN REGION (MEDMPA) Bibliography Annex I / List of flora and fauna recorded from the Maltese Islands Annex II 1 Coastal Zone Management (Structure Plan Policies CZM 1- 3; TOU 15) Annex III / Structure Plan policies affecting the coastal zone 1 General Conservation: Policies RCO 10, RCO 11, RCO 19, RCO 20, RCO 21, RCO 24 2 Beaches: Policies: RCO 16, RCO 17, RCO 18, RCO 23, RCO 22 3 Specific Areas: Policies: RCO 34, RCO 36, RCO 37, RCO 4 Marine Conservation Areas: Policies: MCO 1-13 Annex IV / Indicators for coastal issues Annex V Coastal declaration for Malta Coastal Zone Declaration Principles for an Integrated Coastal Area Management Plan
69 69 70 70 70 71 73 73 74 74 75 77 79 79 80 80 80 80 80 81 86 86 86 86
List of Plates Plate 1 Plate 2 Plate 3 Plate 4 Plate 5 Plate 6 Plate 7 Plate 8 Plate 9 Plate 10 Plate 11 Plate 12 Plate 13 Plate 14 Plate 15 Plate 16 Plate 17 Plate 18 Plate 19 Plate 20 Plate 21 Plate 22 Plate 23 Plate 24 Plate 25 Plate 26 Plate 27 Plate 28 Plate 29 Cart ruts in the town of San Gwann Temple complex at Mnajdra 3600 BC Valle�a, planning on a grid pa�ern Coat of arms - Grand Master Jean Parisot de la Vale�e Qala Point Ba�ery guarding the North Comino Channel Ramla Bay in winter Gozo Azure Window in Gozo Posidonia banque�es Traditional fishing cra� berthed at Marsaxlokk Fishing community turned touristic a�raction in the sunken doline of Dwejra in Gozo Terracing in Xlendi Gozo Citrus Orchards on terraced coastal slopes. San Blas Gozo Simar Bird Sanctuary Ghadira Bird Sanctuary Dense conurbation around the ports Inter Island transport is a key element in the development of tourism and industrial activity Erosion and degradation caused by offroad activities St Paul's Islands: Nature reserve and cultural site Coastal fortifications around Valle�a Large scale coastal development Hard-stone quarrying So�stone quarrying DeRedin Tower at Pembroke besieged by hotel development DeRedin Tower at Ghajn Tuffieha in pristine isolation Incorporation the old with the new: Tinge Development project Ghajn Tuffieha The public expects equitable access to coastal areas Collecting salt from pans in Gozo Elevated road across valley which allows movement of wildlife and sediments across
List of Figures Figure 1 Geological strata in Malta Figure 2 Average mean monthly temperature at Luqa 1920 - 2004 Figure 3 Malta yearly total rainfall 1840 – 2000 Figure 4 24 hour maximum rainfall at Luqa 1923 - 1998 Figure 5 National Fisheries Conservation Zone Figure 6 Population growth for Maltese Islands for last 6 years Figure 7 Se�lement pa�erns in Malta Figure 8 Urban growth in St. Paul's Bay and Zurrieq Figure 9 Existing quarries Figure 10 Total water production for the years 1991 - 2003 Figure 11 Water catchment safeguarding areas Figure 12 Nitrate map of the Mean Sea Level Aquifer Figure.13 Data aggregation to develop indicators Figure 14 Operations of CRAB
The shipwreck of St.List of Tables Table 1 Table 2 Responsibilities and stakeholder interests of some main institutions Indicators for coastal issues List of Boxes Box 1 Box 2 Box 3 Box 4 EU Coastal Zone Initiatives Trends in offshore aquaculture in Malta Erosion risk areas in Northwest of Malta Ornithology in coastal areas of the Maltese Islands Box 5. Paul Box 6 Legends and myths Box 7 Coastal cultural resources – their fate v .
List Of Acronyms AFM ALE BP CAMP CoS CPD CRAB DAD EEA EC EPD EU FAO FIPD GIS ICAM IPCC ITS MAP MCAST MCSD MEPA MHRA MMA MRA MRI MTA NGOs NSO NW PA PAP ODZ OPM RAC RO SEA SI(s) SoE SPA SPSA SD ToRs UN UNEP UNCCD UNFCCC UoM WSC WHO vi Armed Forces of Malta Administrative Law Enforcement (a unit of the police department) Blue Plan Coastal Area Management Programme Central Office of Statistics Civil Protection Department Coastal Resources Advisory Board Diagnostic Analyses Document European Environment Agency European Commission Environment Protection Directorate European Union The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations Final Integrated Project Document Geographic Information Systems Integrated Coastal and Marine Area Management International Panel on Climate Change Institute for Tourism Studies Mediterranean Action Plan Malta College for Arts Science and Technology Mediterranean Commission for Sustainable Development Malta Environment and Planning Authority Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association Malta Maritime Authority Malta Resource Authority Ministry for Resources and Infrastructure Malta Tourism Authority Non-Governmental Organisations National Statistics Office Northwest (of Malta) Planning Authority (now Planning Directorate) Priority Actions Programme Outside Development Zone Office of the Prime Minister (Government of Malta) Regional Activity Centre Reverse Osmosis Strategic Environment Assessment Sustainability Indicator(s) State of the Environment Specially Protected Areas (RAC) Systemic and Prospective Sustainability Analysis Sustainable Development Terms of Reference United Nations United Nations Environment Programme United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change University of Malta Water Services Corporation World Health Organisation .
respectively of PAP/RAC for providing the opportunity to write this document. A special thanks goes to Stanley Ga� for providing necessary information on bird species in the Maltese Islands. Director. Ivica Trumbic. Appreciation is also expressed to Stephen C.ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The authors wish to thank Mr. vii . Marko Prem. The authors are also grateful to Savior Formosa from MEPA who has provided the maps. and Mr. Spiteri. Superintendent for Fortifications for the information freely given on coastal fortifications. Deputy Director.
viii .
the human wisdom and consciousness have too o�en and too easily been set aside. the greatest civilisations flourished in the coastal areas. the activities that the country is undertaking in order to combat the impacts resulting from those pressures. Which results have been achieved by the efforts made by MAP and PAP/RAC to introduce into the Mediterranean region the principles of such management leading to the integration of environment and development? What are the effects of the documents adopted at the conferences in Barcelona. innovations offered to them by competent organisations to improve the state of their coastal areas? These are the questions to which we shall be able to answer owing to a series of reports made by the coastal states on the recent practice and developments in the field of planning and management of this unique and precious part of their national territories. Rio. over the past decades. reverse the processes leading to degradation of coastal areas.. and act with moderation and good sense in order to save this heritage for the generations to come. prepared for Malta. both marine and coastal. he has realised that it was imperative to harness the negative impacts of his activities. Faced by the advantages brought by economic development over the past centuries. disputed by the populations that inhabited them. Fortunately. exploited. considered since ancient times as ideal environment for living. The present report. In the Mediterranean. ix . is integrated coastal area management (ICAM) which has. and. become one of the pillars of environmental action in the Mediterranean region. One of the principal concerns of MAP. the pressures to which they are exposed. One of the forums created with this objective is the Mediterranean Action Plan (MAP) which brings together the coastal states in the effort to protect and improve the Mediterranean environment. finally. activities and development.PREFACE The sea and the coast represent an exceptional fortune. juridical. institutional. Tunis. Throughout the history. the possibilities of an efficient ICAM. Genoa. leaving the man to abuse the natural resources of this fragile environment. has the objective of presenting the characteristics of its coastal areas.. with the passing of time. and particularly its Priority Actions Programme Regional Activity Centre (PAP/RAC). these areas were managed. as a space that enables the man to fulfil most of his needs. Johannesburg? How have the states benefited from the methodological.
x .
therefore. Located on the eastern side of the Valle�a peninsula. Grand Harbour is far more industrial in character. desalination. A lack of awareness of the heritage of the Maltese Islands. The two harbours surrounding Valle�a present a striking divide. they produce changes within that same marine environment which have to be tolerated by other activities. Tourism conditioned much of the more recent development within the Northern part of the island where the few beaches of the islands may be found. sewage treatment and disposal. shipping. This harbour has long been dominated by the ship-building and shiprepair yards located within the sheltered creeks of the Three Cities. Such a�achments lead to a particular sense of place which further conditions development along the coast. coupled with uncoordinated policies between the different governmental entities. yachting. The area can be perceived as a location of opportunity as well as a potential source of conflict. as well as historical development of perceptions of the coast and special cultural a�achments to the area. Despite their small size. and the consequent political clout. These are discussed in terms of the current status of their utilisation by the local and tourist population. a lack of financial resources directed towards enforcement undermines many protection measures already carried out. fishing. These include the current. and bathing are all examples of activities which require exacting standards in the quality of the marine environment. Harbours are major foci of human activity and reveal much about a�itudes towards the coast. The western port (Marsamxe� Harbour) is largely occupied with tourist-oriented activity and includes shipping and berthing places for the numerous sight-seeing ships that leave the port on a daily basis. from a variety of coastal activities. scuba diving. have to suffer a diminishing level of accessibility to coastal resources. The measures put in place under the current legislative provisions have proved partially effective in protecting the environment but threats are still present. Other intensive industrial activity is carried out within the vicinity of the Marsa Power Station and the Marsa industrial estate. Coastal issues need to be perceived in the appropriate context. Some examples of past experiences with ICAM are also presented as well as an overview of the current legislative structures which concern coastal issues within the Maltese Islands. Shoreline residences.EXECUTIVE SUMMARY This document describes the present status of coastal management in Malta and how coastal issues and conflicts are being addressed. water sports. presents a gentle slope right up to the shoreline thus permi�ing construction right up to the waterfront. and new ones will continue to arise. and petroleum tanking and bunkering services. Furthermore. the Maltese Islands possess a richness of geological features and natural habitats. Shipping activity also includes container transport. Most problems of land use in the Maltese Islands are focused along the coast. Under such circumstances. are major factors influencing the current situation. mariculture. This is largely due to the fact that the sedimentary rock strata of the Maltese Islands dip towards the northeast. their high population density. xi . and archaeological features. cultural. oil bunkering. and habitat loss are particularly sensitive problems within the Maltese context. This concentration of activities along the coast results in problems of acute competition between stakeholders. residential and tourist development. The small size of the Maltese Islands. it is not surprising to observe that activities which have less economic significance. landscape degradation. as well as coastal-oriented industries are all important factors which produce a continuous and everincreasing demand for coastal resources and land use. grain silage. The coastal geomorphology of the northeast. Other coastal resources refer to social. At the same time. This is a problem which is characteristic of all commonly shared natural resources. Problems of marine and air pollution are common to most Mediterranean islands while groundwater contamination.
The document concludes with some practical examples aimed at achieving this goal. Many administrative and economic entities have striven to control this very important area due to its economic importance. and economic. This is facilitated by a series of tables that outline the administrative.Spatial development and many activities in the Maltese coastal area have had a long but sectoral regulation. More recently. environmental and planning considerations have acquired more (and deserved) importance and coherence. Such stakeholders need to subscribe to a vision for the Maltese coast which should translate into achievable ICAM practices in the near future. xii . responsibilities of various stakeholders in different sectors of coastal activities. However the holistic and integrated management of the coastal area has still to become a reality. This framework is reproduced in this publication and discussed in terms of current practices in coastal management. legal. A Policy framework for integrated sustainable management of the coastal area has been outlined in the CAMP Malta report. with the se�ing up of MEPA.
the Roman Emperor Justinian declared the air. the sea. In fact. some 5200BC. Some examples of past experiences in ICAM are also presented. An overview of the current legislative structures is also given. Indeed these two Mediterranean islands are easily visible from each other on a clear day. 'entertained' Ulysses for seven years in a cave on the shores of GOZO. possibly of a past transportation network.CHAPTER I Introduction 1. and consequently the shores of the sea as "common to all mankind". preferring coastal locations.1 TRADITION OF ICAM IN MALTA It is debatable when this archipelago of small islands. situated in the middle of this landlocked sea called the Mediterranean1. received the first colonizers onto its shores. as well as in conflicts with the legitimate and increasing demands for environmental. Some of these are the oldest known constructions in the world and are included in the list of UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites. In one of the earliest records2. Li�le is known about life at that time. These colonizers thrived and erected many constructions such as standing stones (Menhir) and Capped stones (Dolmen). landscape and cultural heritage conservation. have resulted in a continuous and ever increasing demand for uses of the coastal area. tombs and other elaborate monuments around the island. 1 Medi-terra-nean Plate 1 Cart ruts in the town of San Gwann (Vella. PURPOSE OF THE REPORT The small size of the Maltese Islands and their high population density. the Maltese landscape also contains impressive 'remains' of the enigmatic cart-ruts. 1. later also shrines. most of the current industrial and commercial activities are concentrated around the main harbour-city conurbation and along the coastline. This document aims to describe the present status of integrated coastal area management in Malta and how the issues and conflicts are being addressed. These parallel tracks cut into the rock surface are generally thought to result from an as yet unknown human activity. 2004) Although detected in other Mediterranean sites. and later in connection with "Climate" and (not by Malta) in "Biodiversity". Homer describes how Calypso. the daughter of Atlas. a declaration which was rekindled in more recent times by Malta during the process which lead eventually to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. It is plausible that they arrived from Mainland Europe. running water. Urbanisation has expanded around the coast and the demand for coastal recreation and tourism development continues to increase. Around AD 503. even though these two la�er instruments are not 2 The Odyssey 1 . by embarking on primitive cra� from Sicily. Such concentration of demand and activities along the coast results in these activities competing amongst each other.
built new hospitals and. architecture and the arts followed. erected new strong coastal fortifications. the main coastal activities consisted of a flourishing corsairing which was based around the natural ports of the country. were built during this period. The concept of "commonness" can also be found in initiatives taken by many other countries. where the coast is seen as a source of opportunity in trade and cultural enrichment.Plate 2 Temple complex at Mnajdra 3600 BC (anon) as strongly or clearly worded as the former. 1992). A golden era in culture. implemented by the Conservatoire du Li�oral. the later flourishing of these corsair activities. exemplified by the city of Mdina were replaced by the more extrovert and open ones around Birgu and the three cities. Valle�a. This shi� from walled and strongly defended inland cities to coastal cities resulted in profound psychological changes. resulted in the establishment of important coastal fortified se�lements. and dates back to the time of the Roman Empire. This transition reached a peak in the elegant planning adopted for the new city of Valle�a. Important models now exist in France since 1975. This gave origin to a host of fortified towns and cities. In early times. this concept of 'commonness' and the freedom of accessibility to the coast (and its conservation and reinstatement where lost) is one of the policies set out in the Structure Plan for the Maltese Islands (PA. A�er their victory against the O�omans. the Knights turned enthusiastically to the further development of Malta and Gozo. 3 This is generally of around 3 meter width. In Malta. most importantly. 2 . the fortress city. Although many were originally located inshore to afford be�er defence possibilities. Several of Malta's most a�ractive buildings many of which are located on the coast. and even earlier (1895) in the UK by the National Trust. given in tenure by Emperor Charles V. all directed at regaining the coastal strip3 for the enjoyment by the public. was built and named in honor of the Grand Master Jean Parisot de la Vale�e under whose rule the Knights and the Maltese had defied the O�oman onslaught. A corollary to this activity was the defence efforts to counteract hostile interest from others. for the annual rent of one falcon. Coastal uses in Malta received new impetus following the arrival of the Knights Hospitaller {the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem} in Malta. Introspective and defensive viewpoints which considered the coast as a source of danger. which became their new homeland in 1530. in this respect. The Knights quickly improved trade and commerce on the islands.
Rather. sea and sand touristic offer. On June 12th 1798. Later served as a planning model for other cities such as NewYork. They entrenched (literally) themselves to the south of the main island behind a series of fortifications called the "Victoria Lines". with their sandy beaches. did not seem to share such an enthusiastic appreciation of the coast. Napoleon having landed at Ramla Bay in Gozo (the same beach where Ulysses had spent his stay) entered Valle�a bringing to an end 268 years of rule by the Knights of St. as exemplified by the Selmun Fort built on a peninsula. The British (who were invited to replaced the French) military presence in Malta. To replace the previous dependence on defense related income. and resulted in a large uptake of coastal areas for the construction of the required facilities. as being too difficult to defend. on the 13th of December of 1979. planning on a grid pa�ern (anon) Plate 5 Qala Point Ba�ery guarding the North Comino Channel (anon) Today it is declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO. and which defends the beaches of Mellieha to the north.Plate 3 Valle�a. as well as the whole of Gozo. to state of the art fortifications on the coast. Sir Walter Sco� described Valle�a as "the city built by gentlemen for gentlemen". . John. A booming economy. especially the northern coasts of Malta. with a systematic distribution and division of streets and piazzas. Plate 4 Coat of arms . using the open space between the buildings and the fortifications for troops to assemble. and that of St Paul's Bay to the south. they viewed it with considerable concern. leaving the defense of the landing beaches to the north. The la�er activity started as the traditional sun. Malta encouraged Industrialization and Tourism. largely based on the construction industry resulted in considerable areas of 3 Valle�a is one of the earliest examples of a planned city built on the grid system.Grand Master Jean Parisot de la Vale�e The British rule eventually came to a peaceful and ceremonial end on the coast of Birgu.
to provide technical and other know-how. a "Coastal Declaration"4. The importance of coastal issues. many along the coast (Bugibba. in partnership with PAP RAC. To the present day it continues to exert a determining effect in everyday life. together with this document form a sound bases upon which this requirement can be finalised.Plate 6 Ramla Bay in winter Gozo (Vella. amongst other outputs. Malta is required to formulate its own Integrated Coastal Zone Management Plan. of the (then) Planning Authority and the approval of a Structure Plan for Malta. 2004) Malta. to embark on a study of coastal issues. and of coastal issues has molded the cultural. economic and the environmental scene throughout our history. and the threats and pressures from their unsustainable management led major institutions in Malta to seek a new approach in coastal management. Indeed many of the most recent political events. including those which have brought Malta to become a European Union Member state can also be linked to issues originating in coastal management. at the same time introducing transparency in the process by removing previous Ministerial ruling. As a member state. in a detailed but integrated manner. was concluded in 2002 and resulted in. resulted in the creation in 1992. Marsalforn and Xlendi) being built up. This study now known as CAMP Malta. The importance of the coast. The outputs of CAMP Malta. 4 Annex II 4 . An evident need to restrain land uptake and to control rampant (and at times illegal) development. Mellieha.
the commission has prepared a communication addressed to the Council and the European Parliament on "Integrated Coastal Zone Management: A Strategy for Europe" (COM/00/547 of 17 Sept. It also needs to be integrated. 2000). the response must be a flexible strategy focused on addressing the real problems on the ground. and that given the diversity of physical. so as to ensure that the management of Europe's coastal zones is environmentally and economically sustainable. The Strategy defines the EU's role as one of providing leadership and guidance to support the implementation of ICZM by the Member States. 5 . within a philosophy of governance by partnership with civil society. economic.BOX 1 EU Coastal Zone Initiatives The EU has recognised that coastal issues need to be given higher importance through a common approach. and participative. This Recommendation was adopted by Council and Parliament on 30 May 2002. and many kilometres inland. The coastal zone is defined as a strip of land and sea of varying width depending on the nature of the environment and management needs. Following a demonstration programme running from 1996 to 1999. It seldom corresponds to existing administrative or planning units. 2000). a failure to involve stakeholders. cultural and institutional conditions. The EU also recognizes underlying problems related to a lack of knowledge. inappropriate and uncoordinated laws. The natural coastal systems and the areas in which human activities involve the use of coastal resources may therefore extend well beyond the limit of territorial waters. and a lack of coordination between the relevant administrative bodies. regional and national levels. as well as socially equitable and cohesive. and a proposal for a European Parliament and Council Recommendation concerning the implementation of Integrated Coastal Zone Management in Europe (COM/00/ 545 of 8 Sept. at local. The Strategy aims to promote a collaborative approach to planning and management of the coastal zone. The EU adopts a definition of a coastal zone which is very similar to that used in CAMP Malta.
2002) 6 .Plate 7 Azure Window in Gozo (Vella.
it is difficult to place precise boundaries around it. THE COASTAL ZONE By standard definitions of the "coastal zone". the Globigerina limestone. Greensand and Upper Coralline Limestone. Nevertheless. the Coralline limestones and Blue Clay strata are important in terms of the Island's natural water resources. 2. Blue Clay. tunnels and other spectacular rock formations" (Middleton. Middle and Upper Globigerina Limestones. which are the only natural freshwater source of the country. capped by minor Quaternary deposits of terrestrial origin. The pa�ern of the landscape of the Maltese Islands is mostly influenced by the resistance each rock layer has to erosion. During the compilation of the Final Integrated Project Document for CAMP Malta. the entire islands. the immediate coastal strip. In rural areas however the boundary is predominantly characterised by ecological systems and extends further inland". The five main rock types of the Islands are: Lower Coralline Limestone. In fact. The definition for the coastal zone boundary.1 GEOLOGY The Maltese Islands are a group of small islands located in the central Mediterranean. caves. with characteristics pertaining to medium sized Mediterranean islands. 2002) is the "coastal boundary identified on the bases of ecological. subdivided into three units – Lower. The following chapter gives a brief description of the main features and their importance vis-à-vis the coastal area. rich in its resources and variety. a gently sloping rocky coast on the north eastern side and a steep cliff dominated coastline on the southwest and west side of the Islands. presents specific characteristics. are considered to have the a�ributes of a coastal zone. as has been approved by MEPA in the Coastal Strategy Paper (Planning Authority. 1997). The low-lying coast on the northeast side is more accessible than the cliffs on the northwest/southern side. The perched aquifers are situated in the northwest area of Malta whilst the mean sea level aquifer covers almost one third of the Island. physical and administrative criteria. Globigerina Limestone. either landward or seaward (Vella et al. Although it is generally intuitively understood what is meant by the coastal area.CHAPTER II The Maltese coastal environment 2. This definition is therefore adopted in this document. Differential rates of erosion acting upon horizontal rock strata exhibiting varying degrees of resistance create Malta's characteristic topography. The 7 . and a number of small uninhabited islets and rocks. The archipelago consists of three inhabited islands . whereas agriculture dominates the cliff areas on the southern shores. In situ. The Islands are composed almost entirely of marine sedimentary rocks. due to the immediate impacts and interactions with the adjacent marine environment.Malta. This type of formation has influenced the general location and distribution of the various uses on the coastline. the amount of vertical displacement of faults and finally the gentle tilt seawards to the northeast. mainly limestone of Oligo-Miocene age. Gozo and Comino. 2003). Rainwater percolates through the porous limestone rock and accumulates in natural underground water reservoirs. Consequently there are variations in the coastal widths between one area and another. a clear unambiguous legal text of the definition of the coastal area was found to be lacking. The coastal zone boundary is significantly close to the coastline within coastal se�lements and towns and is limited to the first road aligning the coast. The Maltese Islands have been aptly described as "…a country of spectacular coastline which comprises steep. activities are concentrated on the more accessible low-lying shores.. The Islands have an undulating tilt towards the northeast thus producing two types of coastline. vertical cliffs within which are some of the most fantastic arches. the aquifers. the Maltese Islands are rich in geological features and natural habitats. Despite their small size.
the temperature and precipitation pa�erns are particularly prone to climate change induced fluctuations. spectacular landscapes are created through the collapse of large coastal caves enlarged through marine erosion processes. which is a transitional climatic region between the western temperate and the southern subtropical climate types. The stratum gradient in these valleys is much less than the south western valleys and the resultant landscape is a series of relatively wide valleys with residential hills capped with Upper Coralline Limestone. Such landscapes contain solution features produced by groundwater flow. Other valleys can be found cu�ing through higher so�er rock strata where drainage flow tends towards the northeast. Maltese geomorphology is dominated by karst processes operating within a semiarid Mediterranean climatic regime. Such geological formations can also extend underwater and provide a rich source of underwater scenery. Such structures are only known in Dwejra and Qawra. cu�ing back into gentle slopes forms features in the rock that has been traditionally exploited as salt pans. This seasonal pa�ern is modulated by the increasingly evident changes induced by global warming. Several underwater caves were formed when the seafloor collapsed. like spring lines caves and subsidence structures. and an . Situated as they are. The average annual rainfall is around 524mm and the temperature varies between 7°C and 15°C in January to between 25°C and 35°C in August. Such steep sided valleys are normally along the south western shores where intermi�ent streams cut through the lower Coralline Limestone stratum. 8 Weathered Globigerina Limestone. with four to five months of drought coinciding with the ho�est time of the year. in the center of the Mediterranean. both in Gozo and form the most spectacular sea-scapes of the Islands. The paucity of rainfall creates characteristic Vshaped valleys where initial vertical joints or fault lines develop as down cu�ing proceeds at a much faster rate than lateral erosion. crystalline strata which are more resistant to erosion and produce characteristic steep slopes as well as the sheer cliffs found along the southwest coast of the Islands. In some case.2 CLIMATE The climate of the Maltese Islands is characterised by the extreme seasonality of its precipitation regimen. The popular and famous Azure Window in Gozo is a sea cave which has enlargened by continuous wave action into a natural arch. Most of these pans are still in use today and are the main producers of table salt for the Maltese Islands.Figure 1 Geological strata in Malta Lower and Upper Coralline Limestone form relatively dense. 2.
wind and precipitation.2000 increase in extreme weather events. decreasing annual rainfall and probabilities for short duration intense rainfall episodes. The plates below show increasing monthly average temperatures.Figure 2 Average mean monthly temperature at Luqa 1920 .2004 Figure 3 Malta yearly total rainfall (mm) 1840 . Flora and fauna are thus generally adapted to variable temperatures. 9 .
3. these are highly threatened through intense human recreational activity.3 COASTAL HABITATS With a total land area of approximately 315.3. either due to its physical features or due to development. trampling and hunting.1 Coastal wetlands Saline marshlands are locally very scarce and vulnerable and are characterised by a muddy substratum on which a pool of brackish water collects in the wet season.3 Rupestral communities Rdum (sheer cliffs) and screes are typical of the southern and western coasts of Malta and Gozo in particular. of the existing issues and highlighting the need for conservation. the Maltese archipelago has a shoreline of about 190km.19985 2. 2. Despite the continuous threat from anthropogenic influences. The overview of such habitats and their associated species is not meant to be totally comprehensive but more illustrative in nature. which supports several endemic and ecologically important species such as the Sea daffodil Pancratium maritimum (Maltese Pankrazju).3.2 Sand dunes Sandy beaches only make up two percent of the entire coastline of the Maltese Islands and thus sand dunes are extremely rare. including camping. leaving the marsh dry until the following wet season. Due to their relative inaccessibility. 2. such coastline provides refuge for many species 10 . The Islands' coastal areas are generally characterised by cliffs.Figure 4 24 hour maximum rainfall at Luqa 1923 . One such example is the endemic Killifish Aphianus fasciatus (Maltese Buzaqq) which is naturally found in only three locations in the Islands. The best example of dunes in the Maltese Islands is that found at Ramla l-Hamra. 5 Referenced in Malta's First National Communication to the UNFCCC The species found thriving in such areas are adapted to tolerate extreme flactuations in salinity. They are maintained by seasonal fluctuations in precipitation. since they are o�en resting places for wintering birds and waders on their migratory route across the Mediterranean (Box 4). the Maltese coastline supports several important habitats and species. Due to their restricted distribution. evaporation and seepage rather than by coastal tidal fluctuation. in Gozo. run-off. 2. Salt marshes also have a high ornithological value. clay slopes and boulder rocks.4 km2. offroading. During the dry season the water becomes progressively more brackish until it becomes hyper saline and finally disappears completely. The Sea rush Juncus maritimus (Maltese Simar) is also restricted to such brackish waters. About 57% of the coast is inaccessible.
This maerl habitat is also rich in biodiversity where over 400 different flora and fauna such as echinoderms.6 Unique microhabitats The importance of Posidonia banque�es is increasingly being recognized.Plate 8 Posidonia banque�es (Vella. 2. The most important subli�oral biotic community is that of the Neptune grass Posidonia oceanica (Maltese Alka) which is a highly productive ecosystem. Further inshore. Moreover.4 Low-lying maritime rock communities Gently sloping shores are characteristic features of northeast Malta and Gozo. grows in isolated patches in the shallow saline soil which accumulates in the rock depressions. The infrali�oral zone extends to depths where there is sufficient light for normal photosynthesis. Subsequent generations of snails and algae enlarge this structure. Erosion of this rock type forms small depressions which fill up with water to form rock pools. Both meadows are important benthic types since they serve as breeding grounds and refuge to a number of fauna. thus forming the maritime garigue.5 Marine benthic zones The suprali�oral zone of the Maltese coast is characterized by the particularly valuable and unique vermetid platforms which consist of cemented and intertwined loosely coiled shells of vermetid gastropods (snails) embedded in a matrix of coralline algae. 2. halophytic (salt tolerant) vegetation such as the endemic Chamomile Matricaria recutita (Maltese Kamumilla). the cliffs are important breeding grounds for birds. This good visibility in deep waters enhances diving opportunities in the Maltese coastal waters.3. 2003) of flora and fauna. the meadows are mostly based on the Lessser Neptune grass Cymodocea nodosa and the Red sea grass Halophila stipulacea. the northwestern cliffs of Malta. In fact.3. Another unique and important assemblage found off coasts of the Maltese Islands is maerl accumulations formed from una�ached coralline algae. Those situated close to the shore line are inundated with sea water and thus support a variety of flora and fauna that are typical of the suprali�oral zone. polychaetes and molluscs were recorded. In the Maltese Islands. the clear waters and visibility extend down to a depth of about 50 .60m. Worth mentioning are two palaeoendemic plant species . thus protecting sandy shores from erosion. Gozo and the whole island of Filfla are declared as Important Bird Areas (Wild Birds Directive) (Box 4).3. 11 . 2. In more sheltered localities and in shallow water. which is also Malta's National plant. including a considerable number of endemic species. The removal (where required) of these banque�es is thus limited to the touristic high season. They are also the main oxygen providers to the sea while also acting as wave breakers.the Maltese Cliff-orache Cremnophyton lanfrancoi (Maltese Bjanka ta' l-Irdum) and the Maltese Rock Centaury Palaeocyanus crassifolius (Maltese Widnet il-Bahar).
Of these 1. such as dentex (Dentex dentex). mostly for agricultural purposes has led to the over-abstraction of water through boreholes which in turn lead to saline intrusions.599 were registered as part-time fishermen.Plate 9 Traditional fishing cra� berthed at Marsaxlokk (Vella. where there is the Island's only fish market (Department of Fisheries. at local level. while 25% of the local part-time fishing population is also from this region. The problem of water quality is aggravated by the increase in leachates mostly nitrates. most full-time fishermen (i. when undertaking trips of more than two days. Most of the full-time fishermen (42%) come from the south-eastern region (including Marsaxlokk Port). The Maltese fishing industry is facing a number of problems. are caught by trawling. The total estimated catch in 2000 was 987 tons.411 in Malta and 325 in Gozo. 2004). 2. long-liners and ne�ers.4. Statistics issued in September 2001. from pesticides and herbicides. the soil structure and the productivity of agricultural land. 2003) 2.4. The aquifers are the Islands' primary source of natural water. from fertilizers (natural manure and artificial compounds) and to a more limited extent. northern bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus). NATURAL COASTAL RESOURCES 2. The remaining 1. This is due to the smallscale and traditional nature of local fisheries and to their role in supplying valuable food items and in satisfying the demanding request for high quality fish to the touristic hospitality industry. which enables them to practice off-shore fishing during the milder seasons and coastal or inshore activities during the winter months. The average number of fishermen employed on each full-time boat is three during winter. Other demersal species such as blue and red shrimp (Aristeus antennatus). swordfish (Xiphias gladius). since they undertook all types of fishing.4. However.e. common sea bream or red porgy (Pagrus pagrus) and black scorpion fish (Scorpaena porcus).736 vessels. which is unpredictable and always insufficient. These industrial vessels were mainly trawlers. whose contribution towards the industry is minimal. over 15 m in length). The 12 rest could be considered as multi-purpose. including the lack of deck hands due . with a value of about US$ 4. Due to their commercial value. rose shrimps (Parapenaeus longirostris). showed that the total licensed fishing vessels were 1. Almost all the fish are landed at Valle�a. An increasing demand for fresh water. Freshwater Natural freshwater resources in the Maltese Islands are scarce and depend entirely on rainfall. European hake (Merluccis merluccius). including skates and rays. The quality of water in the aquifers affects the quality of potable water and agriculture produce.e. Fishing in Malta is mainly seasonal and.23 million. There are no perennial surface water streams. whose main income is derived solely from fishing) own at least one small and one large vessel. only 45 were considered to be industrial vessels (i. as a consequence.2 Fisheries The fishing industry in Malta is relatively small.1. red mullets (Mullus barbatus/ surmuletus). extra hands are sometimes recruited. although on a smaller scale. the social importance of fisheries far outweighs their economic output. mainly used for agriculture. stone bass or wreckfish (Polyprion americanus) and species in the Sparidae and Scorpaenidae families. More than 65% of landings by weight are taken up by large pelagic species. common octopus (Octopus vulgaris) and various other species. the most targeted species were common dolphinfish (Coryphaena hippurus).
is limited. The Maltese aquaculture industry experienced significant changes a�er 2000. In 1994. the production of sea bass and sea bream have not remained the mainstay of the local aquaculture industry. The success of the tuna-penning venture prompted three of the existing farms initially culturing sea bass and/or sea bream to partly convert production capacity to tuna. 2. The surface and deep water currents also prevent the migration of water masses between the mainland and Malta. The Environment Impact Assessment of a tuna penning application at Ta' Cenc (cliffs at the Northwest of Gozo) showed that the site was inadequate. Other areas are also problematic from a shipping point of view. The younger generation prefers less arduous jobs on land which guarantee a steady income.746 tons in 2000.4. since it would cause severe negative impact on important migratory bird colonies breeding on the cliffs at Ta' Cenc. e. However. The only boats which are still economically viable are those entirely owned and manned by families with a fishing tradition and trawlers. is almost entirely exported (95%). the former Planning Authority issued a Policy and Design Guidance for fish farming in Malta which aimed to provide advice on applications for aquacultural units. the proximity to the main Italian market is an advantage. Since then. rendered the local production of these species non-competitive with respect to other Mediterranean producers. This leads to very low productivity in the waters surrounding Malta. The aquaculture production. The offshore aquaculture industry has developed within the tight constraints of a National Aquaculture Plan and policy guidelines that to the very hard work associated this trade. This Guidance document also identified six 'search areas' for the location of these farms. Figure 5 National Fisheries Conservation Zone (outermost circle) ensure environmental protection and sustainable development. gill ne�ing in enclosed bays which are nurseries for small fish. Aquaculture is essentially based on large-scale commercial offshore units employing modern technology. The recent trends in the Maltese Islands are the increase in offshore fish farms and aquaculture. no specific sites were identified.g. The above issues have led the former Planning Authority to delete the search areas from the Policy and guidance document of 1994. Additionally fish stock prefer to spawn in shallow coastal waters on the Maltese shelf. are essentially of the oceanic type.BOX 2 Trends in offshore aquaculture in Malta Christine M. Some indiscriminate fishing however is still occurring. which were based on the prevailing wind conditions.3 Fisheries conservation zone The waters surrounding Malta. as a result of the introduction of tuna penning. together with taxation imposed on exports to European Union countries. Although an amendment to the Policy and guidance document was issued in 2001. Traditionally. whilst a revised version is prepared. The cost of producing farmed fish is still relatively high. which reached 1. Fish such as sea bass is thus being bred to the size required by restaurants. and are poor in nutrients as compared to the waters around Sicily. Tanti Malta's potential in the field of aquaculture is considerably high since the Maltese coastal waters offer favorable growth temperatures for fish and relatively clean waters. since practically all the proposed areas pose problems in one way or the other. and such stock in general can be considered as exclusive national resources. the Maltese population is one of the least fish consuming communities in the Mediterranean. Moreover. diminishing seasonality and 'taking from the wild' thus giving some measure of conservation and sustainability to tourism demands. 13 . thus larval dispersal between fish stocks spawning on the shelf of Sicily and on that of Malta. although it is a popular recreational activity. the local scale of production. These were revised very early.
These areas are characterised by terraces and retaining rubble walls which are well constructed on sound. . is now a common countryside 'recreation' for city dwellers.738 hectares. Such activities.BOX 3 Erosion risk areas in Northwest of Malta Adapted from Tanti et al. 14 Flat or low gradient slopes on the contrary are less prone to erosion. These areas are also characterised by a very high percentage of irrigated cultivation. housing "city paraphernalia" which mar the traditional landscape. About 77% of this agricultural land is dry farmed land whilst only 11% is irrigated. 2000). Registered agricultural land in the Maltese Islands is 10. About 77% of this land is dry farmed whilst only 11% is irrigated. According to the latest agricultural census. Much of this land has remained abandoned a�er the production of animal fodder for beasts of burden was no longer required due to the mechanization of agriculture. i. An increase in the drive to place more of the land under viticulture has been noted during the past few years. Thus. In part this has been brought about by the increased standard of living and the demands of the tourist industry for locally produced wines. many of whom have achieved social standing through the conscious or unknowing despoliation of the country's natural capital. if suitably regulated. One of the main outputs of the activity was an erosion risk map for the NW. Some of these fields o�en experience problems of rilling and gullying due to surface water runoff originating from much further upslope. The study showed that the greatest threat to soils occurs along the clay slopes which delineate the Upper Coralline Limestone platforms. This activity dealt with the environmental problem of desertification was implemented following the Guidelines for erosion and desertification control management with particular reference to Mediterranean coastal areas (UNEP/MAP/PAP. where the highest percentage of agricultural land (57%) is located. These areas have been abandoned mainly due to low potential for agricultural production and difficult access to the fields. Areas with moderate risk occur on terraced farmland which may have been recently abandoned. Much of this is driven by the hard working newly rich middle class city-dwellers.e. 34% of total land area (NSO. but who now crave for 'nature' and a 'return to the old lifestyle'. Many of these fields are found on the lower parts of the clay slopes. solid rock foundations on Upper Coralline Limestone platforms and the series of graben valley structures cu�ing across Malta in a northeast to southwest direction. In some cases.4 Agricultural land Agriculture in the Maltese Islands is largely concentrated in the Northwestern region. This new phenomenon could also be a sign of the search for open spaces and an escape from a stifling and crowded urban lifestyle. 2001). Part of the problem lies in the difficulty that farmers have to face in a�empting to construct rubble walls upon clay foundations. or whose farmers may have allowed their retaining rubble walls to fall into some state of disrepair. or are converted to hunting and trapping sites. 2. transportation and industry. neglect seemed to be historical where there were only remnants of old rubble walls with soil profile removal. (2002) The growing impact of erosion processes and the risk of desertification as well as experiences in depletion of natural resources were mandatory to consider erosion and desertification control management in the efforts for sustainable coastal area management in Malta. could help to improve the landscape by providing greenery in the dry summer months. Since most of the southern parts of mainland Malta are urbanized. the highest percentage of agricultural land (57%) is located in the northwestern region. This map consists of a composite derived map based upon a set of physical factors (lithofacies and slope) coupled with a set of human factors (terraces/retaining rubble walls and land use). Some terracing with no obvious retaining rubble walls can occur at the coastal fringe and in garigue. Viticulture and some small animal rearing in the countryside. if not an enhanced environmental sensitivity and consciousness. Moreover. a soil erosion/desertification control management component was included in the CAMP Malta Project.4. in which strict measures are taken to manage fish stock in a sustainable manner. rubble walls are repaired and maintained although there is a trend for a proliferation the building of illegal small 'rural rooms' and other structures. On the bases of this Malta has declared a national fisheries conservation zone extending out to 25 nautical miles.
due to an input of saline sewage generally caused by (as yet) poorly controlled sea water infiltration into the sewage network. with a low calcium carbonate and organic ma�er content. 1997). calcareous Blue Clay and Globigerina Limestone.1 Faults These features form the most spectacular topographic elements in the Islands. These soils develop mostly on weathered Quaternary calcareous sandstones. Three main types of soil can be described. 15 . These areas are also characterised by a very high percentage of irrigated cultivation. 2. They are also generally infertile. shallow (~ 5cm) and prone to erosion. The Carbonate raw soils are also immature soils with a very high calcium carbonate content and very low organic ma�er content. Part of the problem in these cases is the difficulty that farmers have to face in a�empting to construct rubble walls upon clay foundations. With unpredictable and highly variable precipitation (a possible effect of climate change). This soil type develops on weathered Globigerina Limestone and deposits are found within valley beds.4. The Terra (Red Mediterranean) soil is a relic soil formed during the Pleistocene period and occurs where Coralline Limestone is located. and the slow wear and tear of time and the elements eventually lead to their disappearance from the landscape. flat or low gradient slopes such as the Upper Coralline Limestone platforms and the series of graben valley structures which cut across Malta in a northeast to southwest direction are less prone to erosion.5 LANDSCAPE AND NATURAL VALUES The Maltese Islands have been aptly described as "…a country of spectacular coastline which comprises steep. A system of ridges and valleys are found between these two major faults. solid rock foundations. These activities do not respect and conserve the soil. Such treated waters are quite saline (exceeding 2000 micro -siemens). Malta and Ta' Cenc in Gozo. tunnels and other spectacular rock formations" (Middleton. whilst the hillsides and plains are mostly used for agriculture. The plateau surfaces form karstic limestone surfaces which support garigue habitats. This threat is higher on clay slopes which are particularly prone to soil erosion. the amount of vertical displacement of faults and finally the gentle tilt seawards to the northeast (Pedley et al. Terraces and retaining rubble walls in these areas are o�en well constructed on sound. vertical cliffs within which are some of the most fantastic arches. Two major faults the Maghlaq fault occurring in a NW to SE trend and the Great Fault bisecting Malta perpendicular to its long axis. caves.. 2. These factors have led to an interesting and contrasting variety of relied features of the Islands. On the other hand. This soil is mature and highly weathered.2. or agricultural land being converted to hunting and trapping. A degree of successful agriculture thus depends on excessive irrigation quantities to wash the salt down into the ground and to natural 'cleansing' during the winter months when the rain would flush away the salt.6 Salinisation of li�oral agricultural fields Salinisation of agriculturally important soils is generally on the increase. The pa�ern of the landscape of the Maltese Islands is mostly influenced by the resistance each rock layer has to erosion.5. This phenomenon can be found in a greater degree in some coastal areas (which are not classified as aquifer protection areas) and are therefore allowed to be placed under irrigation from treated waste waters. These faults give Malta and Gozo their characteristic topography of plains and shallow depressions separated by low hills and plateaus. Nearly all such features are protected by law. The greatest threat to soils is water and wind erosion (Box 3). These topographic features are of importance since they support many endemic flora and fauna species. Xerorendzina is an immature soil with high calcium carbonate content and low in organic ma�er. 2.5 Soils The Maltese soils are traditionally characterized by their similarity to the parent rock material and their relatively young age. The Lower Coralline limestone formation (the oldest rock formation on the Maltese Islands) makes up main part of the towering sea cliffs/ rdum at Dingli. and hence retaining rubble walls fall into a state of disrepair. Greensand and the lower beds of the Upper Coralline Limestone. 2002). Another threat to soil is the trend for land abandonment.4. this washing out does not take place reliably and crop quality and quantity suffer.
3 Other features The limestone rock and the maritime environment has led to the formation of several caves and dolines. The popular and famous Azure Window in Gozo is a sea cave which has enlargened by continuous wave action into a natural arch. Natural regeneration has occurred within this subsidence and today harbours one of richest and untouched maquis communities of the Islands. these clay slopes also support an important semi-climatic steppic community dominated by the Esparto grass Lygeum spartum (Schembri. Several underwater caves were formed when the seafloor collapsed. Apart from their aesthetic value..2 Shore platforms Shore Platforms form as a result of weathering on the vertical surface of heavily burrowed Globigerina limestone. 2. 1994).Plate 10 Fishing community turned touristic a�raction in the sunken doline of Dwejra in Gozo 2. These pans are still in use today and are the main producers of table salt for the Maltese Islands. 16 . Several dolines can be identified in the Maltese Islands. This consists of weathered globigerina limestone. This sub circular sink hole represents a relatively recent collapse of limestone surface which formed the roof of a fairly large cave. This feature has been exploited and salt pans were dug out on this platform.5. Ghajn Tuffieha.5. Blue clay weathers easily to form the typical low or rounded clay thalli found at for example Qarraba. cu�ing back into gentle slopes. The clay thallus is slippery when wet and is therefore covered with landslip debris. 2002). The ensuing characteristic honeycombed surface has been copied by masons on many prestigious buildings such as the Old Opera House in Valle�a to enhance their appearance (Pedley et al. Another characteristic shore formation is a layer packed with the flat sub circular shells of a burrowing sea urchin Scutella. This scutella bed occurs at or very close to the top of the lower Coralline limestone and is common at Dwejra Gozo. Perhaps one of the most known is ilMaqluba (which literally means inverted). Such structures are only currently known in Dwejra and Qawra. Xwieni coast in Gozo also provides another characteristic feature. both in Gozo and form the most spectacular seascapes of the Islands.
a number of areas have been scheduled due to their ecological importance under the Development Planning Act. The species recorded to date in the Maltese Islands are listed in Annex I.4 Terracing The rural landscape of Malta today is widely dominated by man . Although at present only the terrestrial biota is protected. some with a restricted Mediterranean distribution. Fungus Rock (Dwejra. collect. other habitats. These include all sites that have been protected via the Environment Protection Act as nature reserves and/or bird sanctuaries. As the name implies. These steps have been accentuated in many areas by humans. trap. pick and hunt any species of flora and fauna in or from these islands. there are plans for the extending this protection to a delineated part of the marine environment around them. have become endangered and scarce. Areas of Ecological Importance (AEIs) and Sites of Scientific Importance (SSIs). 2003) 2. the drastic increase in development and urbanization has resulted in the complete obliteration of habitat types. It is also illegal to capture.made terracing. A total of 29 sites in the Maltese Islands have been declared as tree reserves. The phosphatic conglomerate beds within the Globigerina limestone weathered into flat lying layers forming steps in the landscape.6 BIODIVERSITY AND PROTECTED AREAS Despite their small size. the 20 designated bird sanctuaries afford protection to the avifauna and thus are actually managed as such (Box 4).Plate 11 Terracing in Xlendi Gozo. The protection afforded to these sites includes the prohibition of access and landing on the islands. Moreover. keep in captivity. To date. 35 terrestrial sites have been designated as a candidate Natura 2000 site in the Maltese Islands. resulting in the building up of the natural step into a terrace wall between field levels. The EU Council Directive on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora (92/43/EEC) known as the "Habitats Directive" calls for the establishment of a European network known as Natura 2000. 2. The three nature reserves found in the Maltese Islands include the small uninhabited islands of Filfla (Northwest coast of Malta). Bird sanctuaries are declared according to Schedules forming part of bird protection regulations. Similarly. such as salt marshes and sand dunes supporting specialized species. During the past 15 years or so. A considerable number of species and subspecies are in fact endemics. Some habitats and biocoenoses are also afforded protection through Structure Plan policies which institute Rural Conservation Areas. of Special Areas of Conservation (Natura 2000). and Annex III. Annex II. DeRedin Tower in the foreground (Vella. Following the establishment of the Planning Authority. Gozo) and Selmune� Islands (Northeast coast of Malta).5. and to stuff and commercially exploit. 17 . tree protection areas are declared according to Schedules forming part of the Tree and Woodlands protection regulations. the Maltese Islands support a variety of habitats and is particularly rich in flora and fauna diversity.
San Blas Gozo (Vella. to date. coastal cliffs and clay slopes have been scheduled. This scheduling affords blanket protection from certain activities but does not provide for management of the areas. saline marshlands. coastal wetlands. Conservation Orders which specify management requirements for a scheduled site can however be issued. valleys. 2002) Thus. forest remnants and woodlands. all sandy beaches/sand dunes. 18 .Plate 12 Citrus Orchards on terraced coastal slopes.
Ghadira is also designated as a Ramsar site (Convention on wetlands of international importance.) and egrets (e. known as the Ramsar Convention). Tanti Several bird species feed.BOX 4 Ornithology in coastal areas of the Maltese Islands Christine M. The boulder screes that form at the foot of the cliffs increase availability of the nesting sites. hence their local and regional importance. which are important both on a national scale as well as being important on a Mediterranean scale. The main breeding bird colonies in cliffs are the Cory's Shearwater Calonectris diomedea and the Levantine Shearwater Puffinus yelkouan. in particular along the coastal cliffs and in salt marshes. The management of these sites has been successful since they have provided a breeding habitat for certain species such as the Moorhen Gallinula chloropus and the Reed warbler Charadrius dubius. Plate 13 Simar Bird Sanctuary Plate 14 Ghadira Bird Sanctuary Source of photographs: www. crags and fissures. The cliffs are usually honey-combed with caves. Ghadira (l/o Mellieha) and Simar (l/o Xemxija) have been modified to facilitate the development of a managed habitat for a�racting migratory bird species. Since these features are situated at different heights. breed and winter along Maltese coastal areas.org 19 . Egre�a garze�a). Both sites are designated as Bird sanctuaries under the EPA (Act XX of 2001) and as Important Bird Areas/Special Areas of Conservation (Habitats Directive and Wild Birds Directive). they offer ideal nesting sites for certain birds. Two sites. such as herons (Ardea spp. Both sites are currently being managed by local NGOs.birdlifemalta.g.
Birgu & Ricasoli (anon) 20 .Plate 15 Dense conurbation around the ports. Right – Kordin. Anti Clockwise: Le� . Center – Valle�a Floriana Hamrun and Marsa. Senglea.Sliema & Gzira.
life in Gozo today reaches an enviable level of quality. Co�onera area. It is to be stressed that many of these divisive influences are indeed real and there is statistical data in their support. There is now a strong movement and feeling in Gozo. socially and economically underserved. 3. Most Maltese own the property where they live. Transportation infrastructure was very poor and dangerous (by today's standard) and consequently Gozo was culturally. Since nearly a century it has been customary for any self respecting family. and most town dwellers and entire villages would migrate6 to summer coastal residencies which were smaller and more 6 This may be compared to the alpine transhumance practice. cultural and archaeological features of the coastal area 3. On the other hand. The situation has now changed dramatically when the Maltese 'discovered' the potential for relaxation in the sister island. With the birth of internal tourism. This divide gives rise to concerns since there is statistical evidence showing that standards of living.3 NORTH / SOUTH CULTURAL INDUCED DISTRIBUTIONS The concept of a North-South divide is an imported term that has been applied to the Maltese case to highlight inequalities in the geographical distribution of socio-economic. to own a summer residence at a seaside resort. cultural or sociological characteristics. Many political initiatives have been taken to address this imbalance. although still retaining most of its rural charm. Some may appear to be somewhat strange on an island just 28 km long by 15 km wide. This translates into a strong wish to build touristic and other accommodation. particularly in the countryside.2 MALTA / GOZO GEOGRAPHICAL INDUCED DISTRIBUTIONS Many years ago. a more accurate divide would be aligned along an East-West axis where the Valle�a peninsula separates the more affluent western (Sliema/St. indeed in some instances a profound effect on coastal issues. by promoting tourism. and to generally develop the land. In fact. In order to augment such a status. variables. reflected geographical divides expressed at a continental scale and hardly conforms to the geographic realities of Malta. dwellings are elaborately and expensively furnished and (thus) difficult to clean and maintain. The urban areas would be deserted on the commencement of the scholastic vacation period. Some of these can be considered to be real and tangible. and thus Gozitan residents missed out on the benefits of these activities. or much a�enuated in the smaller island of Gozo. in general. that the previously underserved and "underdeveloped" area should reap the same economic benefits which Malta has apparently secured from its building boom. 3. Almost all economically and culturally important activities. industry. They are mainly concerned with encouraging more investment and job creation in the South. living in Gozo was a serious disadvantage. earnings and educational levels differ in the two areas. owning a large dwelling (on a densely populated island where land and space are very limited) caries considerable social and status benefits. The concept.4 COASTAL / INLAND INDUCED DISTRIBUTIONS A large proportion of the Maltese live in the central urban agglomeration around the Capital of Valle�a. originally. cultural and sporting initiatives and education. many Maltese who retreat to Gozo for relaxation seem to be worried and alarmed at the ever increasing construction taking place. Non the less they have a considerable. Julian's) residential areas from the poorer eastern. 3. whilst others are of a more tenuous nature. took place exclusively on Malta. and even environmental.1 SOCIO-CULTURAL FEATURES The coastal regions of Malta are influenced by a number of physical.CHAPTER III Social. Property has considerable status implications. It also note worthy that some of these characteristics are now only evident in the larger island of Malta and are essentially absent from. 21 .
around the dry-docking and ship repair facilities set up by the Knights around Birgu and Senglea. particular a�ention being given to an equitable division of desirable locations such as beaches and coastal promenades. sailing and rowing. hunting. amateur fishing. 3. races of many types. These activities were then much reinforced with the introduction of mechanization starting from the time of the presence of British Navy in Malta. wind surfing and power boat racing. and for the future.frugally furnished (easy to keep clean). Not only can these boaters enjoy beaches and areas which are inaccessible from the land. On the other hand. resulting a degradation of the small sandy beaches. the continued use and occupancy of the beaches make maintenance and cleaning operations nearly impossible. with industrial areas located in the vicinity of the coast. diving. and agricultural areas (and open spaces) concentrated in the center and towards the West coast which has no easy access to the coast. This process of industrialisation has resulted in a clear division. 3. The islands of Malta are still deeply religious. and more extreme types of sports such as para-gliding. In the middle 60's. Recent major development has been driven by the perceived benefits of associating with these new marine leisure activities and include new touristic development. This persists to this day. Industry in Malta established itself initially. the main industrial areas are mainly to be found in the coastal areas. jet skies. This problem has seen migration of traditional land-based activities to offshore locations. This includes offshore aquaculture (Box 3). because of the difficult terrain. casinos.. and Bulebel are typical. Such maintenance can only be carried out manually whilst the coast is still "in use". This late night activity is a good example of the multiple use of scarce resources since it avoids competition for the same space with the influx of tourists during the summer days. Kordin. Paul's on one of the reefs just off the mainland Malta (Box 5) features high in Maltese history. Other activities apart from ship repair include the traditional fish markets. and more recently the booming yachting harbors and the activities connected with them. many of the Industrial zones which were designated for this purpose where also located in the vicinity of the coast. the former created artificially. It is a well-known fact that Maltese and Gozitans alike make most of the cool summer sea breeze by traditionally having bar-be-ques on the beach. Similarly the introduction of sporting events such as Formula 1 racing. and a cruise liner terminal. These o�en start late a�ernoon. Industrial estates such as those of Marsa. and bunkering operations. continue at night and keep on till the early hours of the morning. whilst the la�er is of natural origin. the majority professing to belong to Roman Catholicism7 which was brought to the 7 In Malta there is complete freedom of religious practice.7 RELIGION The coast is strongly associated to the birth of Roman Christianity in the Maltese Islands. has been mooted. These include traditional events such as water polo. The land space is quite heavily urbanized or otherwise unavailable for many types of sport requiring wide open areas. wind generation and land reclamation.5 AGRARIAN / INDUSTRIAL DISTRIBUTIONS As indicated earlier. Prime examples include the le�ing off of fireworks from anchored barges during village festas as well as the staging of operas on floating stages. . The importance of "owning" a coastal location persists to the extent that when Local Councils were introduced in Malta in 1993. they can also enjoy cleaner waters and lesscrowded areas. The lack of space on land and the competition for different activities is increasingly becoming a limiting factor. Areas taken over by beach umbrella "forests" and rocky coastlines are particularly difficult to clean and maintain. The lack of beach space for recreation coupled with less clean beaches has resulted in the rapid increase of Maltese owning a speed boat/sailing boat/yacht. where the shipwreck of St. such as hotels. but as yet remain unrealizable for this reason. 3. and cooler due to the daily sea breezes. It has been observed that the extreme demand for open space on land has generated a shi� in certain activities from land to sea.6 LAND / SEA AS RECREATIONAL SPACES The space at sea also offers great scope for many new types of "Sport". Thus the development of golf courses gives rise to public controversy 22 and planning concerns on the part of regulators. when efforts to introduce manufacturing industry in Malta started. special efforts seem to have been made to maximize the number of councils having some jurisdiction over a coastal area.
Today. 1997).g. and 8th September. Many towns and villages organise complicated enactment's and processions which could involve the enthusiastic participation a large proportion of the local residents. although it is nearly certain that this was lost (and regained) a number of times according to the fashion or appropriateness under various rulers and colonizers. blessing of fishing vessel or statues transported on boats) carried out at sea. There is still no be�er text than that set out by the Evangelist Saint Luke in chapters 26 and 27 (Box 5). This has been recognised as being unsatisfactory and new routings for route busses are being proposed. in AD60. Some other coastal village feasts take place on the coastal promenade. The possibility of diverting some of the daily commuter traffic to and from Valle�a.Plate 16 Inter Island transport is a key element in the development of tourism and industrial activity (Vella. Thus the 8th September festivities involve Rega�as with traditional and colorful boats' races in the Grand Harbour. sailing and rowing and amateur fishing. The service is being strengthened by the upgrading the ports of Cirkewwa in Malta and Mgarr in Gozo. Under the Spanish rule (1283 – 1530). a ferry service from Marsamxe� (Valle�a) to Sliema and vice versa was a quick and effective means of transport. These semi-religious events include the participation of bands and a conclusions with fireworks display. The most important of these concerns the shipwreck of Saint Paul of Tarsus. 3. 2004) Plate 17 Erosion and degradation caused by off-road activities (Vella. Many such activities can and are. both aspects of which have not yet received sufficient investigations. the Maltese acquired a taste for the dramatic externalization of their beliefs. Extreme sports such as para-gliding and jet skies have also become popular 'overnight'. All buses start and end their journey from the capital Valle�a. by using ferries and water taxies is also being considered. Peter and St. by tradition. Thus.9 TRADITIONAL BELIEFS The coastal regions are inexorably linked with religious and cultural beliefs. developed on a radial system. such sports also maximize the use of beaches and coastal cliffs. Many of these events are associated with the sea. The open space at sea also offers great scope for many sports. involving a diversity of termini. including traditional events such as water polo. 3. it is only considered by most as a tourist a�raction. The diving industry in the Maltese Islands has also seen a rapid increase and year a�er year. by the Apostle Paul. 2004) Islands in 60AD. The disadvantages of these practices include disturbance of habitats and perhaps a greater sensitivity to environmental damage such as erosion. The coastline remains the main recreational area for residents and tourists alike. Although this service is still available today.8 TRANSPORTATION The public transport system in Malta has. this has developed into quite elaborate spectacles as evidenced in the traditional village feasts. more diving holidays are being organized to Malta. or involve religious activities (e. Easter. 23 . by utilizing them when they are less in demand. as important touristic products. Mnarja (St. Paul). especially those connected with the major events such as Good Friday. in view of the favourable distribution of the main residential areas around the two main ports (see Plate 16). also amenable to winter recreation. Way back in the early 40's. The inter-island ferry service is well developed and offers a reliable communications route. particularly Gozo which in the recent years has developed as an all-year round diving destination (Middleton.All these traditional events have found new importance through the work of the Malta Tourism Authority.
and the stern was broken up by the surf… A�er we had escaped. struck down from the land. There was hardly anything to take away but her young son would fetch a good price in the slave market. then hoisting the foresail to the wind they made for the beach. and the third day they cast out with their own hands the tackle of the ship. When the fourteenth night had come … about midnight the sailors suspected they were nearing land. and bow stuck and remained immovable. And when neither sun nor stars appeared for many a day. and when the ship was caught and could not face the wind. Amidst the luxuriant wood is a cave. a soldier martyr.BOX 5 The shipwreck of St. On her return home in the evening she repeated this procedure. Every morning she passed the chapel and made a special prayer to St. all hope of our being saved was at last abandoned…. It is said that the original chapel was submerged intact in a landslide and the lamp that Zguguna lit is still burning in the submerged church. An old widow. a li�le farther on they sounded again and found fi�een fathoms… Now when it was day they did not recognize the land but they noticed a bay with a beach. beyond the village of Gharb. The corsairs had also broken into the chapel. So they cast off the anchors and le� them in the sea. his stallion made a step forward and he hovered towards the open sea. 24 . Dimistri began to move. Zgugina. One middle summer night. Dimitri to safeguard her beloved son. And the natives showed us unusual kindness. we gave way to it and were driven… As we were violently storm-tossed. St. taking everything expect the painting of St. we then learned that the island was called MELITA. poplar and sweet smelling cypress grew from every crack. Ulysses is shipwrecked on an emerald isle. overlooking Ramla bay lies the case of nymph Calypso. Tanti (adopted from Bezzina. called the northeaster. for they kindled a fire and welcomed us all… BOX 6 Legends and myths Christine M. In this chapel. So they sounded and found twenty fathoms. lived in a small room not far from the chapel with her son Ma�hew. and no small tempest lay on us. 1991) The lure of Calypso Perhaps one of the best known legends in the Islands regards the stay of Ulysses. at the same time loosening the ropes that tied the rudders. Paul …But soon a tempestuous wind. Dimitri. Calypso kept him under her lure for seven long years with the promise of the island's kingdom and eternal youth and happiness. They quickly bundled him away and disappeared in patch darkness. where alder. St. Dimitri is pictured on a white stallion with an old lady imploring his help on the le�. the dreaded corsairs broke into her poor abode. on which they planned if possible to bring the ship ashore. they began next day to throw the cargo overboard. Dimitri re-appeared with Ma�hew holding fast to his waist. San Dimitri On the westernmost point of Gozo. Whilst Zgugina was praying for a miracle. folk can point out in rocks the marks le� by the hoofs of Dimitri's stallion when he landed with Ma�hew. there is small rural chapel dedicated to Saint Dimitri. Next to the present chapel. But striking a shoal they ran the vessel aground. flowers bloomed profusely and trees were heavily laden with fruit. Perched on the edge of Xaghra village. The Gods finally pitied Ulysses and let him go back to his wife and son. St. Ulysses made his way into the cave. the Greek warrior on Gozo while returning home a�er the Trojan War.
These all provide added a�ractions to the economically important diving industry. including ships of all ages. They are important diving sites. There are a number of wrecks in Malta. The Knights constructed an underwater stop wall in the same bay so as to hinder vessels from gaining access to shore. Shipping activities (i. e. Dockyard/Ship repair). cannon and shot.10. industry (i.e. ceramics and glass. offering novelty and wreck dives. They also reduce pressure from other more ecologically sensitive locations. the coastal towers established under the Knights of St. amphorae.1 Marine archaeology The Maltese Islands are rich with historical and archaeological remains which span over several epochs. Artifacts purposely or accidentally thrown overboard have also been found. recently ships and small vessels have been scu�led in suitable locations. 25 . Subsidence and sea level change have led to the submersion of archaeological features.e. The strategic siting of the creeks and embayments resulting from natural geomorphic processes has been developed for maritime transport and defense.10 COASTAL ARCHAEOLOGICAL. These include roman anchors. A number of remains have been discovered at sea. Roman bath remains at Ramla l-Hamra in Gozo have been completely buried in the sand. CULTURAL AND HISTORIC SITES 3. John and the forts and military outposts constructed under the British period are some other remarkable coastal landmarks. a�racting local and foreign divers. submarine and aircra� which are now also considered of archeological importance.g. Coastal locations further reflect the fact that the Islands' culture is a product of the unique geographical characteristics of archaeology. Birzebbuga are another example. Valle�a. The 40m tug Rozi is perhaps one of the most known and photogenic wrecks to be found locally and internationally. salt pans and quarries) and defense structures are common features along the Maltese coastline. The magnificent fortifications found in the Grand Harbour. Moreover.Plate 18 St Paul's Islands: Nature reserve and cultural site (shipwreck of St. This includes the development of the capital city of Malta. Paul) 3. mainly in the port area. George's Bay. smoking pipes. The Bronze-Age silos at St.
Plate 19 Coastal fortifications around Valle�a (Vella. 2003) 26 .
Despite all of this. sewage treatment and disposal. granted to a number of projects that resulted in further privatisation of the coast despite public protest. and the consequent political clout.1 POPULATION OF COASTAL AREAS Just like in many other countries. therefore. the Maltese coastline has become the most hotly contested real estate in the nation. Shoreline residences. the term "unobstructed sea-views" works magic in the industry. development permits were. Under such circumstances. yachting. Owners of properties which were not fortunate enough to possess seaside frontage complained that their residences were suddenly obscured by a virtual wall of multi-storey development in the direction of the seafront. have to suffer a diminishing level of accessibility to coastal resources. This has given rise to some concern as the local population sees a highly visible process of greater privatisation of the coastline and. 4. At the same time. A wide variety of activities compete for an extremely limited stretch of coast. they produce changes within that same marine environment which have to be tolerated by other activities. In other cases. This is a problem which is characteristic of all commonly shared natural resources. demand for residences within the Sliema-St. a location of opportunity as well as a potential source of conflict. Within the decade that followed however. The coast is. In line with these market forces. the Sliema-St. scuba diving. noise. desalination. where possible. it is not surprising to observe that activities which have less economic significance. has been the source of some controversy between residents of the area. fishing.CHAPTER IV Development pressure In a country which is noted for its maritime tradition as well as for its lack of industrial natural resources. Concomitant problems of construction nuisance. Shipping and fishing were the traditional users of the coast. government needs to recover land which had been lost to private interests. Practically all of the single family terraced residences that faced the sea have been torn down and rebuilt into multi-storey apartments. Such demands are all too o�en respected by politicians and other policy lobbyists since the industry now accounts for more than 40% of foreign currency earnings and is a major source of employment. A key coastal planning policy enshrined within the 1990 Structure Plan for the Maltese Islands (Government of Malta. the land previously occupied by residences was rebuilt into multi-story hotels. This is reflected in land and marine use planning priority schemes. naturally. face the prospect of their ever diminishing access to the coast. in fact. Anecdotal information claims that owners of such houses were given the penthouse apartment plus a sum of money to allow their houses to be demolished. but new demands for coastal locations are now made by the tourist industry. This. shipping. bathing are all examples of activities which require exacting standards in the quality of the marine environment. parking and vehicular congestion created considerable tension. coastal residential properties in Malta command premium prices on the real estate market. therefore.Julian's foreshore has seen spectacular redevelopment over the last two decades. oil bunkering. 1990) stated that privatisation of the li�oral areas needed to be halted and. mariculture.Julian's area remains high and Figure 6 Population growth for Maltese Islands for last 6 years (reproduced from NSO) 27 . water sports.
such apartments were perceived as the only low key investment available within a very restricted set of investment opportunities in the 70s and 80s. hotels. tourist-oriented shops. and high cost properties on the coast. Early problems associated with construction on clay slopes does not seem to have deterred real estate interests and such areas are fast disappearing Plate 20 Large scale coastal development (anon) 28 . complete with the traditional Catholic church and pjazza. and shorter buildings of more moderate cost inland. Coupled with the rather discretionary and "elastic" land use planning policies of the time. and bars and restaurants. The main driving force behind the overnight development of Bugibba and Qawra tends to lie more in the demand for summer residences by Maltese families as well as holiday flats for tourists. with some relatively poor and depressed (literally as well as socially) areas further inland. Mellieha experienced phenomenal growth over the last three decades and has developed as the northernmost tourist and residential node. Many of these former holiday apartments have now been taken up as permanent residences by Maltese families and the Bugibba/Qawra area has now taken on the form of a true Maltese town. holiday apartments.Figure 7 Se�lement pa�erns in Malta still commands high prices. such market forces resulted in a sprawling mess of aparthotels. For a while. A cross-section of properties along an imaginary line perpendicular to the coast shows high-rise.
The two harbours surrounding Valle�a present a striking divide. the Maltese economy was largely dependent on the servicing of the British garrison that was stationed in Malta for almost 200 years. land speculation and development is o�en perceived as a quick and dependable lucrative activity. In the end. Accessibility to the coastline and privatisation of the waterfront are major issues which have been debated during the last few years (Suncrest and Sunnycoast cases at Bugibba/ New Dolmen Hotel. the Hilton Project). grit blasting aerosols. 4. In fact the newly elected Labour Government of 1996 experienced considerable internal strife over. and petroleum tanking and bunkering services. Other intensive industrial activity is carried out within the vicinity of the Marsa Power Station and the Marsa industrial estate. At present. a large tourist-oriented project. and the sewage outfall at Wied Ghammieq still cast an overall negative image which deters future residents. is underway within the area and this should result in a greater influx of tourism within the area.2 ECONOMIC CHARACTERISTICS Up until the late 70s. Located on the eastern side of the Valle�a peninsula. During these last few decades the islands have experienced a massive transformation in their economic structure which has resulted in a re-orientation of industry now geared towards light manufacturing and a wide variety of services. and a welcoming disposition amongst the local population led to the phenomenal increase in tourist oriented development. The geology of the northeast. the area which lies west of Malta's Grand Harbour has experienced very slow growth and virtual decline. the Manoel IslandTigne project. Comino Hotel and Alterna�iva Demokratika. An agreeable climate. Pollution is another significant problem in the area. The tourist sector played a crucial role in this respect. Past episodes of soot from the Marsa power station. The establishment of the Malta Freeport. amongst other issues. bonded stores. Shipping activity also includes container transport. presents a gentle slope right up to the shoreline thus permi�ing construction right up to the waterfront.3 SOCIAL ISSUES Land speculation has long been a major social issue. In order to appreciate the extent of this transformation it is important to note that the islands lack practically all of the natural resources needed to initiate a strong industrial development program. This harbour has long been dominated by the ship-building and ship-repair yards located within the sheltered creeks of the Three Cities. Maltese salaries are significantly lower than most western European countries (%) and the buying power of newly married couples seeking residences is correspondingly lower than that of retired couples who wish to se�le in Malta. Therefore. This is largely due to the fact that the sedimentary rock strata of the Maltese Islands dip towards the northeast. In this respect the granting of development permits for projects has o�en been the subject ma�er for some considerable controversy and political bickering.under new residences commanding views over the Channel separating Malta from Comino. therefore. and the construction of the new Enemalta power station at Marsaxlokk Harbour has created a pole of industrial a�raction shi�ing industrial interest further to the southeast. its planned privatisation of the Co�onera waterfront. Tourism conditioned much of the more recent development within the Northern part of the island where the few beaches of the islands may be found. Additionally. Sale of residences to overseas buyers poses severe problems for Maltese nationals. This has become a major issue in Malta's negotiations with the European Union and resulted in special restrictions placed upon foreign residents purchasing property in Malta. The western port (Marsamxe� Harbour) is largely occupied with tourist-oriented shipping and includes berthing places for the numerous sight-seeing ships that leave the port on a daily basis. 4. 29 . This is expected to renew development interests at Hal Far and Bulebel industrial estates. grain storage. Grand Harbour is far more industrial in character. clean seas. This is hardly surprising in such a small country as Malta where the availability of land suitable for development projects is in great demand. MEPA is currently entrusted with the responsibility of issuing development permits that do not discriminate between political allegiances. Such locations are largely associated with the ship-building and repair industry and suffer from the decline of the industry. In stark contrast to all of this northerly development. this area contains large yacht marinas which have been extended considerably over the last few years. it had to resort to calling fresh general elections over the Co�onera Development project and lost the 1998 elections in the process.
Much of the new residential development was located on the periphery of existing se�lements and contributed to the coalescence of villages and towns. Fragmentation. Outlying villages and towns have experienced considerable growth during the past 50 years.5 AGRICULTURE. 6). 7) Urban expansion owes it origins to several factors other than simple population growth. Another fertile agricultural area that has experienced more recent rapid urbanisation is the central part of Malta. several older residences located within village and town cores have become vacant. though no reliable Plates are available. The more pertinent factors include successive governments' policies of fostering home ownership through the donation of building plots on state-owned land. Most of these fields are high enough in elevation to overcome the problem of sea spray but problems of accessibility and steep slopes render their productivity somewhat marginal.viticulture expansion o�en limited in coastal locations due to salt laden winds. This resulted in a prompt acceleration of the price of residences during the late 80's and early 90's. These factors Land speculation . It is commonly believed that the islands were once covered by a climax vegetation of sclerophyllous forest. 2003) Waves of speculation have also occurred during the last few years. largely composed of Aleppo pine (Pinus halipensis) and Evergreen oak (Quercus ilex). Such schemes o�en resulted in building booms which set a boom-bust economic pa�ern. Soil salinisation problems are expected to increase in time within places like Pwales and Burmarrad valleys since groundwater abstraction used for irrigation far exceeds the safe well yield. possesses some interesting terraced fields located. In fact. Arable cultivation in such areas is also under threat from physical (mechanical) soil erosion which occurs during torrential autumn rainstorms. only a tiny remnant of these forests still exists at Wardija and this has been reduced to some dozen individual specimens. Li�oral agriculture is o�en beset with problems originating from salt-laden winds in exposed areas. that several foreign (mostly Russian) buyers bought considerable property on the island just before and during the early 1990s.4 URBAN DEVELOPMENT The se�lement pa�ern for Malta can best be perceived as a series of concentric rings of urban development centred on the Valle�a/harbour area. 30 . The agricultural loss. Much of the arable land available within the urban precincts of the harbour areas has long been lost to expanding urbanisation. FORESTRY AND FISHERIES Only a very small amount (%) of the total land area of the Maltese Islands is forested. On the other hand. This is largely due to Maltese tenancy protection legislation acting in combination with antiquated laws of inheritance. 4. on the other hand. right up to the cliff edge. Reforestation schemes have met with some moderate success at Mizieb and LAhrax (Marfa Ridge). practically. The western cliff margin. the rate of population growth in Malta is very low by Mediterranean standards (see Fig. in this case. Unfortunately. Recent surveys indicate a vacancy rate of 23%. and land abandonment Plate prominently as factors that contribute towards land degradation and desertification. soil erosion. was even greater since most of the soils within this area were relatively productive due to their origins as alluvial sediment. It is widely believed. (Fig.Plate 21 Hard-stone quarrying (Vella. In fact there have been so many cases of coalescence of villages and towns that an urban continuum can be traced for a good one-third of the country. Most of these are located in low-lying land and valleys formed by block faulting. 4.
2004) 31 . Paul's Bay and Zurrieq 4. (either Grand Harbour or the Freeport at Marsaxlokk) in normal containers bound for overseas destinations.6 INDUSTRY AND MINING Most of the manufacturing industries in Malta are concentrated within six "industrial estates". coal was offloaded haphazardly onto the wharf at the Menqa. consequently. This resulted in a fair degree of resentment amongst Marsa residents who complained of the Plate 22 So�-stone quarrying (Vella. their products are trucked to the nearest harbour. In fact. Two of these (Hal Far and Ricasoli) are located right up to the shoreline despite the fact that they make li�le use of their li�oral location. This location ensures calm seas but cooling water from the sea is slightly higher in temperature at this site. in Marsa. warmer water is circulated continuously within the harbour and through the plant.Figure 8 Urban growth in St. The Marsa power station can also utilise coal and did so up to 1994. The Ricasoli and Marsa sites are similarly serviced by Grand Harbour but the comparatively short distances pose no problems for access to the Freeport at Marsaxlokk. Other industries require coastal locations. Power generating plant need coastal locations to minimise the cost of fuel shipments as well as to ensure a steady supply of cooling water. Hal Far industrial estate is sited along a cliff shoreline but has easy access to the Freeport container depot. During these years. This is also partly due to the fact that the outlet is also located within the area and. Fuel (currently fuel oil) is conveniently shipped right up to the plant. and then trucked to the power station over the hill. The old power station is located at Marsa which is the innermost part of Grand Harbour.
the Maltese Government is currently holding negotiations with the General Workers' Union leading to a restructuring exercise which should place the yard on a more competitive footing. Shipbuilding is located at Marsa (the innermost part of Grand Harbour) where the yard commenced its latest operation during the mid 70s. This locality has also.coal burning emissions as well as the coal dust generated during coal transport to the plant. into gravel and sand which is used as aggregate for concrete slurries.) is located within the precincts of the old Ricasoli fortification and may inhibit restoration and rehabilitation of the site. all globigerina quarries are located away from the li�oral area. Such blocks have traditionally been used for the construction of domestic and commercial buildings instead of concrete or kiln-fired bricks. extended out to the Medina Bank. In fact. On the other hand. The location of each of the dry-docks utilises the calm waters of the creeks that penetrate deep into the Co�onera area. traditionally provided much of the skilled workforce that is employed within the industry. Consequently. With the exception of the Dwejra quarries in Gozo. storage tanks. The earliest exploration occurred to the south of the islands where. 2003) . This resulted in a somewhat serious territorial dispute with Libya and further exploration within the area was halted until the boundary demarcation was finally determined Figure 9 Existing quarries (Malta Resources Authority. it was believed that proven oil-bearing strata which were being exploited by Libya. over the last three decades. This is partly due to the fact that the Lower Coralline limestone outcrops along the northwestern shoreline to form cliffs. crystalline limestone. Recently completed contracts for three new ferries that operate between Malta and Gozo have delivered some respite for the industry but the financial outlook is still very gloomy.000+ ton tankers. The new power station located on the Delimara peninsula (within the Marsaxlokk Harbour area) was constructed in 1987 and was meant to cater for Malta's growing energy requirements. This is an essential service for tankers that are about to undergo any substantial repairs or maintenance at the Yard. 6 Dock (Red China Dock) that can service 100. Practically all of the hardstone quarries located further inland utilise the Upper Coralline limestone which has similar structural properties and yields comparable aggregate for construction purposes. on site. One of Malta Drydocks' subsidiary industries is the Tank Cleaning Farm located at Ricasoli. the environmental impact of hardstone quarries is more severe than that of so�stone quarries. It draws fuel oil from Enemalta's (the state energy supplier) extensive fuel infrastructure within the area. Shipbuilding and ship-repair have served as the backbone of the country's heavy industry for hundreds of years and it is very unfortunate that this activity has suffered seemingly irreversible recession during the last few decades. The dissolution of the Soviet Union in the 90s resulted in the 'yard having to sell the ships at a bargain basement price to alternative buyers. Cooling water is drawn from the harbour and is discharged outside the harbour in a small embayment known as Il-Hofra z-Zghira. The first utilises machinery to cut stone blocks from the so� globigerina limestone. This situation was further exacerbated by the disastrous termination of contracts with the ex-Soviet Union for eight timber carriers which the 'yard had been working on. Six main Drydocks are employed for ship repair and these are located within the Grand Harbour's eastern area. most of the hardstone quarries are located in close proximity to the coastline. 32 The only commercially significant mineral on the islands is the limestone which is quarried for the construction industry. The resulting material is further crushed. somewhat sporadically. Offshore exploration for petroleum deposits has progressed. It is rather unfortunate that much of the infrastructure of this activity (se�ling tanks. Two types of such quarries exist. A second type of quarry uses explosives to blast a dense. They range in size from dry-docks that can service luxury yachts to No. pipelines etc. The persistent worldwide recession in shipbuilding as well as severe competition from Far Eastern shipyards culminated in the 'yard's incurring of heavy losses.
focusing on the two main hubs of Marsa and Msida. The road network for the island of Malta is essentially radial. and the dumping of domestic and industrial refuse.5m3/km/day in the year 2000. it is hoped that oil-bearing strata may extend southwards from proven reserves in the Sicilian offshore sites located at Gela. RO plants are energy intensive activities but innovative energyefficient and energy recovery technology (e. In fact.553 MWh in 1999/2000. much of this is caused by agricultural activity. Three such plants were operational by the year 2000 since a further plant. This is due to the fact that in the semi-arid climate of the islands precipitation cannot supply enough water to satisfy an ever increasing demand. This is because of an extensive upgrading of the national distribution network which targeted leakage control. This increase in the coefficient of runoff results in lower infiltration rates and reduces the total amount of water which replenishes the groundwater. Unfortunately no commercial finds had been recorded and the well was abandoned a�er reaching depths in excess of 6. The problem of accelerated demand for water and diminishing groundwater reserves has been tackled through the construction of large scale desalination (reverse osmosis) plants. Once again.7 INFRASTRUCTURE Desalination (Reverse osmosis) plants have become a vital component in Maltese domestic and industrial infrastructure. 4. Water Services Corporation statistics show a decline in leakage levels from 19m3/km/day in 1995 to 9. 33 . have been shelved. The social and environmental impact of the discovery of a major oil field within Maltese territorial waters would be considerable. Only one a�empt has ever been made to drill an exploratory well on land. resulted in a drop in energy consumption from 130. This problem is exacerbated by the process of urbanisation which is sealing formerly rural areas and promoting surface runoff during rainfall events. located at Tigné. Plans for the construction of yet another plant in the southern part of Malta. This pa�ern is also reflected in the public transport system of the island where passengers are largely constrained to follow radial bus routes which terminate at Valle�a as the main hub of the network. Indiscriminate abstraction exceeded the safe well yield for several years and this resulted in saltwater intrusions into the sea-level aquifer through the creation of cones of ascension. That occurred in 1998 at a location in Gozo aptly named "Madonna taz-Zejt". Very few crosslinkages exist. This pa�ern is similar to the network in Gozo. including animal husbandry practices. has been decommissioned. smaller island of the Maltese archipelago. however. More recent explorations have focused north of the islands. This. The water present in the islands' aquifers is the only natural reserve of fresh water available and this has been subjected to extreme stress over the last few years.g. Pelton wheels) and falling demand following a pricing structure reflecting the true costs of production and distribution. Progress has also been realised in terms of energy consumption.860 MWh in 1997/8 to 99. Another major threat to the aquifers is posed by pollution.Figure 10 Total water production for the years 1991 – 2003 (based on Water Services Corporation Annual Report 2003) peacefully at the United Nations International Court at The Haag.000m. Both of these are located in the innermost part of the two main harbours (Grand Harbour and Marsamxe� Harbour respectively) surrounding Valle�a.
There is. therefore. They are thus located at low elevations and are far more prone to flooding. The radial character of the transport networks of both islands are. and Mellieha).Julians-Paceville axis is the largest of the three hubs and includes a considerable amount of amenities like restaurants and night spots. Many of these are located within three main hubs (Sliema. In fact. This is where almost all of the bathing beaches and water sports amenities are located. The Bugibba-Qawra area has grown enormously over the last three decades but is hindered by its chaotic urban fabric. The Sliema-St. urban surface runoff converges right onto these areas causing major disruptions to the main islands' transport network. Bugibba.Figure 11 Water catchment safeguarding areas has Rabat (Victoria) as the main transport hub and all arterial roads converge on this principal se�lement. The accommodation aspect of the tourist infrastructure consists of a wide variety of hotels and selfcatering holiday apartments.8 TOURISM Most of the tourist development that has occurred over the last few decades has been oriented towards the Northwestern shores of the island. a relic of unplanned development practices which seems to have characterised much of its early life. during torrential autumn rainstorms. however. a major difference in that both of the traffic focal points on the island of Malta (Qormi/Marsa and Msida) occur where major valley systems meet the sea. similar and contribute significantly to traffic congestion especially during peak commuting hours. 4. 34 .
This seems to have been recognized by the energy company. It also draws cooling water from the wider Marsaxlokk harbour while its outfall lies outside the harbour at Il-Hofra.approx. The newly constructed Delimara power station is located within Marsaxlokk Harbour and possesses room for expansion. Solar energy. One of the factors that accounts for this is the disproportionately high initial cost of purchasing a solar hot water system. is surprisingly largely confined to a few domestic residential users despite the bountiful supply of insolation due to the islands' low latitude and clear skies. Such a scheme will permit the generation of electricity from natural gas. A more interesting development is the feasibility of a link to the proposed gas pipeline that is planned to connect Sicily with Libya. There are also a number of gas (diesel) turbines utilised to make up for any temporary surges in demand. A development proposal for a wind energy farm is currently being discussed but this will account for only a very small percentage of total demand for energy. An underwater power cable supplies electric power to the smaller islands of Gozo and Comino. 35 . This location holds considerable advantages over Marsa in terms of dispersal of air pollutants. This affords greater cooling efficiency over the Marsa plant. Due to deficiencies in the distribution network. which announced in 2002 that households purchasing such systems would be refunded the connection fee to the energy grid (70 Maltese Liri .9 ENERGY The two thermal power stations of the Maltese Islands burn heavy fuel oil in traditional steam generating plant and in the newer combined cycle plant. with concomitant reduction in many pollutants. the aging Marsa power station still supplies the bulk of electricity to the urban hub of the island. This will also permit Malta to immediately achieve its targets under the Kyoto Protocol. It is important to note that all fossil fuels in Malta are imported and this places a heavy drain on the national budget. This also has severe implications for national security. EneMalta. US$ 175). This old plant at the Marsa power station is meant to be modernized in the near future once the new power station can fully absorb the accelerating demand for electric power.4. Both power stations are located within the two major ports of the island of Malta. Petroleum exploration in Maltese territorial waters is still in progress but no commercially feasible finds have been reported. Alternative energy sources are still very poorly exploited. in particular.
36 .
Threats are still present. A major change in perception has occurred in recent years with the adoption of more intensive techniques of production and as evidenced by the results of environmental monitoring of water quality and the status of the benthos under and in the vicinity of the sea cages which revealed several impacts. In order to be compliant with regional requirements all sewage produced will have be treated before discharge. The area under the cages is usually drastically impacted and scavenger fauna are no longer able to cope with the organic input. from some industrial discharges (mainly power stations and reverse osmoses plants). Land based pollution occurs during periods of intense rainfall. carrying pollutants deposited thereon. when aquaculture technology was less intensive. Conditions are significantly anoxic and bacterial mats thrive. which wash the hard impervious surfaces such as roads and paved areas. preventing the diluted sewage plume from surfacing and contaminating bathing waters. and new ones will continue arise. untreated sewage is discharged directly into bays and creeks. which is below the thermocline. mainly the landfills which are located near the coast. facilitating degradation. Shoreline outfalls have long been accepted as practice for Malta. The sea has traditionally been a convenient recipient for the disposal of waste water originating not only from coastal se�lements but also from further inland. 5. Until a couple of decades ago. The problem with sewage pollution however lies whenever there is a malfunction in the system. about 120 hectares of agricultural land in the South of Malta are benefiting from treated water. to the detriment of the environment and public health. A lack of awareness of the heritage of the Maltese Islands. In fact. 37 . a lack of financial resources directed towards enforcement undermines many protection measures already carried out. The two outfalls at Wied Ghammieq. any discharges being fully compliant with the relevant EU and Barcelona Convention requirements. The measures put in place under the current legislative provisions have proved effective in protecting the environment to a certain but as yet incomplete degree.CHAPTER V Environmental and spatial impacts The problems and issues pertaining to the coast of the Maltese Islands are not much different from those in other Mediterranean coastal areas. These are however enhanced due to the relatively small size of the Islands resulting in greater competition for space and land use. The construction of a sewage treatment plant at M'Skala (South Malta) in 1990 proved that sewage could be treated and reused safely. while the British built a massive scheme to take this sewage away from the harbour to Wied Ghammieq (NW Malta). and Ras il-Hobz are equipped to carry the raw sewage far offshore. This will be remediated in a negotiated phased manner so that by 2006 all sewage will be treated and reused. Newer forms of Marine pollution arise from fishfarming operation. coupled with uncoordinated policies between the different government entities are a major factor influencing the current situation. The outfall at Ras il-Hobz discharges at great depth. Other forms of Marine pollution arise from the discharge of (as yet) untreated sewage at marine outfalls.1 MARINE POLLUTION Marine pollution originates from two main causes. Similar but of much more concern is the land based pollution originating from contaminated sites. The former is equipped with a diffuser port at the outfall. therefore pollutants and other microbial pathogens are diluted. fish farming was generally considered as an environmentally sound activity. In this case. from a variety of coastal activities. and the roof tops of houses. The Knights built 5 outfalls for the sewage of Valle�a which drained into the harbour area. Furthermore. the one at ic-Cumnija (also NW Malta) and Ras il-Hobz in Gozo being the latest built. Further outfalls were added over the years.
which offers improved generating efficiencies and thus a lower carbon dioxide emission per KWhr generated. 38 Around 20% of electricity consumption is used for the production of potable water by RO desalination. 2000).452 registered vehicles. These were greatly degraded and the seabed consisted of dead Posidonia ma�e.2 per household. 5. The pollution of the air therefor takes place throughout the day and the nigh�ime. as well as from the local ship repair industry. There are two fossil fuel power stations in Malta. The Posidonia meadows in such areas were in a clear state of regression. and to introduce a modern public transport system and vehicles. travelling extensively over the small spatial area of the country. the coastal areas receive a greater influx of visitors who congregate there to enjoy the beaches and coastal entertainment facilities. Both are located on the coast so as to utilise the adjoining sea for cooling purposes and for the importation of liquid fuels via Oil Tankers. one located in the central densely urbanized area in Marsa. Much of this excessive use of private transport means has been brought about by the declining standards in public transportation services. The soil in Malta is however of an alkaline nature which tends to bind many metallic species. Although the impacts have not yet been studied. and another located at the Southern end of the Island in Marsaxlokk. Steps are being taken to correct these aspects. The ground level displays have a localized but more intense effect. The Maltese population is very mobile. it does not comply with the current EU requirements as to emission controls. together with other peaks which can be correlated with general diurnal lifestyle pa�erns.3 SOIL CONTAMINATION Contamination of the soil is unlikely to have occurred on a large scale.. Measurements of ambient air pollution shows considerable variations in direct relation to the morning and evening rush hours. around 2. and to congregate in rock pools and similar pockets. The Station located in Marsaxlokk is of more modern design and can be made compliant with EU requirements. even though no detailed studies have as yet been carried out. it is believed that they would be small and limited to very circumscribed areas mainly due to the high energy nature of the coastlines where discharge takes place. mainly by utilizing low sulphur fuels. Small areas used as shooting ranges for clay pigeon shooting are contaminated with lead shot. however there is a more marked effect during the summer months when many Maltese choose to live in summer houses located in coastal resorts. There are 269. The pyrotechnics in use certainly seem the generate considerable amounts of particulate and heavy metal emission. The Station located in Marsa has been in operation for over 50 years. An improvement plan is being implemented to correct the situation. and although plant has been changed and upgraded periodically. The coastal areas are influenced with this daily air pollution pa�ern. from the operational discharge from ships and from accidental release from ships either whilst passing or during repairs in the ship yards. mainly membrane technology. The generating plant is of the combined cycle type. The same problem exists on a wider but more diffused scale. 5.Posidonia meadows under and around the cages were also modified due to the high nutrient input.2 AIR POLLUTION The main sources of air pollution in Malta arise from power generation. Vehicle occupancy rate is very low. . Sources in the Maltese waters may originate from dumping from passing ships. Large quantities of brine are discharged to the marine environment. originating from hunting activities. Studies have also indicated that the impact of a farm results in changes in Posidonia morphology and epiphytic load in meadows 170m away from the cage site (Dimech et al. Lead pellets are known to be carried by storm runoff. whilst the emissions from arial displays are more dispersed over larger areas. anoxic sediment and bacterial mats. but travel to and from their place of work every day. Oil pollution is closely associated with the geographical location of Malta which is in the midle of the routs of oil tankers transporting crude oil to European ports from the North African coast and elsewhere. transportation and inappropriate waste disposal practices. This is due to the lack of large scale manufacturing processes such as chemical or extractive industries. Other major risks exist during bunkering operations. Transportation accounts for nearly half the total immision of air pollutants. Around 60% to 50% of potable water is produced through desalination processes. Additionally. Other (as yet) undetermined potential sources of air pollution could arise from the many village festas which take place throughout the island over the summer period.
Over the years a number of sites were used for disposal of solid wastes. The perched aquifers are located above the impermeable Blue Clay geological stratum and are separated by valleys dissecting the Upper Coralline plateau. approximately 1.500 km in 1987 (Report of Survey. This situation. All of these are to be considered as contaminated sites. Hydrocarbon pollution is known to occur under old petroleum storage sites. Whereas in 1910 less than 6% of the Maltese Islands were inhabited. Such contamination is mainly organic and from nitrates. land has been lost or become highly degraded as a direct or indirect result of urbanisation and infrastructural development. notably on the coastal location of Birzebbuga.000m2 and one at il-Qortin ta' Ghajn Damma at Xaghra (Gozo). develops (Tanti et al. 1998). Urbanisation. 2001). This groundwater is the most important reservoir of fresh water on the islands but it is extremely vulnerable to pollution and over-abstraction. one metre of fresh water above the sea level depresses the underlying salt water by forty metres. leading to land degradation and eventually soil erosion. Land abandonment. a steppic community. a ma�er which also needs to be investigated. However.5 LANDSCAPE DEGRADATION Land degradation in Malta can be described according to a spatial gradient of intensity of human land use from rural to recreational. Nitrate contamination is being controlled through an agricultural code of practice. The sea level aquifer is present throughout the islands and forms a lens of fresh water "floating" on a layer of denser salt water which permeates the entire lower geological strata of the islands. with an area of approximately 34. rubble walls collapse. also involves the replacement of permeable surfaces and soil covered areas by artificial impermeable surfaces. 1991). which can be easily remediated by good management practices. Records show that during the last thirty years 15 such sites of various sizes were in existence at some time or other. This hydrocarbon is being collected and the site will be restored for future uses. where vegetation in such fields takes over rapidly. Urban development is one of the most effective agents of land degradation in the Maltese Islands. one at Maghtab (Malta). in 1991 this rose to 21% (Report of Survey. Of these 15 sites only 2 are currently in operation. which is translated into complete obliteration of previously untouched agricultural land and natural habitats. industrial and urban (Role'. thereby increasing run off to percolation ratio (Camilleri. This situation is enhanced by the small size of the Islands and the large population density. which in time may evolve into maquis. generally takes place on marginal terraced slopes where poor soils.Of concern is the ingestion of lead pellets by grazing animals. in common with other areas in the Mediterranean region. touristic and industrial development has been accompanied by the increase in the length of roads on the Islands.4 POLLUTION OF GROUND WATER The natural fresh water resources of the Maltese Islands consist of two types of aquifers: a group of five perched aquifers and a sea-level aquifer. Once the fields are abandoned. In the past 50 years or so. occupying an area of approximately 600. and future uses will depend on the degree of remediation which will be undertaken the future. 1991). whilst overabstraction still needs to be effectively controlled mainly by identifying illegal bore-holes and wells. difficult access and small size of fields make the farmers' work uneconomical. A substantial amount of funds under the EDRP (European Development and Research 39 Figure 12 Nitrate map of the Mean Sea Level Aquifer . In some cases all soil horizons are stripped away from the abandoned field leaving an exposed bedrock.000m2. 5. In theory. 5. The steepest terraced slopes need a lot of maintenance in order to achieve slope and soil stability. The improper management of animal manure also results in soil contamination. 1998).
The total obliteration of the habitat is aggravated by the erection of small hides built in close proximity of such sites. Much of this urban expansion has displaced formerly agricultural land use but. dumping. This is leading to the creation of small rectangular plantations of trees which are visually discordant. Extensive use of herbicides is also made to prevent growth of vegetation. ecologically important sites (e. and which se�le as layer of dust on the surface of fields and crops (Tanti et al. 40 5. where herbicides are regularly sprayed to prevent vegetation growth. 2004) . human impact on surviving natural environments has been severe and includes pollution. The main problem facing conservation of natural resources is the apparently never-ending process of urbanisation within the islands and the resulting human impact.g. Cultural resources also face similar threats from urban expansion and related activities. discotheques. bonded stores. 2001). quarries have an indirect affect on the surrounding agricultural land. Moreover.g. 5. The landscape of the Maltese Islands is slowly changing. fast growing Eucalyptus sp. hunting and trapping. At the same time. ecologically important sites (e. Urbanization has inevitably been accompanied by the sprawl of quarries and related development in the otherwise unspoilt countryside. and even recreational activity like off-road driving. and even recreational activity like off-road driving. (which also a�racts birds) has been indiscriminately planted all over the countryside. since they inhibit growth of other vegetation. These have fallen prey to despicable acts of vandalism which include the spraying of graffiti and outright partial demolition of one of the apses of Mnajdra temple in 2001. hunting and trapping. The fragmentation of land holdings (as a consequence of inheritance laws) leads to land being totally unsuitable for modern methods of agriculture and the consequent abandonment of land. garigue and maquis communities) have been replaced by urban or suburban development. boathouses.7 DAMAGE TO NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES Much like many other Mediterranean countries. which would tear nets (Tanti et al. Apart from the obliteration of the habitat. dumping. Malta has been blessed by a rich and varied natural and cultural heritage. The most publicized threats are faced by the oldest freestanding human constructions in the world: the Megalithic temples of the islands. human impact on surviving natural environments has been severe and includes pollution.Pogramme) have been made available to local farmers in order to repair and maintain retaining rubble walls. 2001). Moreover. and even pig Plate 23 DeRedin Tower at Pembroke besieged by hotel development (Vella. 1999). and are harming endemic biodiversity. warehouses. Other threats are more subtle but equally destructive if allowed to proceed unchecked. the whole most o�en taking up good agricultural land. It is estimated that an individual trapping site occupies about 100 . garigue and maquis communities) have been replaced by urban or suburban development. Many of the coastal fortifications. These include tank cleaning farms. Much of this urban expansion has displaced formerly agricultural land use but. in several other cases. have been allowed to fall into disrepair while others were utilised by a wide variety of inappropriate agencies. some of which date back to the fi�eenth century. Farmers are therefore discouraged to cultivate the land and o�en abandon the fields due to dusts emi�ed from the quarry operations.200m2 (Camilleri. Another factor that is peculiar to the Maltese Islands is land speculation where the demand of land rezoned for urban purposes has been created. Trappers also 'improve' access to these sites by the creation of new access roads and asphalting or concreting of these roads. Agricultural land is being levelled out to form trapping sites. the protection and conservation of such a heritage poses severe financial and logistic problems for a somewhat limited national economy. in several other cases.6 BIODIVERSITY LOSSES The main problem facing conservation of natural resources is the apparently never-ending process of urbanisation within the islands and the resulting human impact. The invasive.
000m2 and one at il-Qortin ta' Ghajn Damma at Xaghra (Gozo). the construction of particularly insensitive hotels has virtually cocooned fortifications which formerly commanded strategic locations thus robbing them of their landscape context. but also in financing the restoration of fortifications which fall within their jurisdiction. In other cases. Torri Mamo. Agatha Tower. Of these 15 sites only 2 are currently in operation. 2003) farms! Some of the most seriously affected include the larger fortifications of Ricasoli. new locations for landfills are being sought. with an area of approximately 34. Examples of these include the towers at St.000m2. Rinella. and St. occupying an area of approximately 600. and Saint Angelo and the Victorian fortifications of Selmun and Bingemma. Thankfully. Plate 25 Incorporation the old with the new: Tigne Development project 41 . 5. some smaller forts have been restored to their former glory. during the last few years. These have to conform with the latest EU requirements for containment and the treatment of leachate and emission of greenhouse gasses.8 WASTES MANAGEMENT Traditionally.Plate 24 DeRedin Tower at Ghajn Tuffieha in pristine isolation (Vella. waste disposal sites have always been located at coastal locations so as to protect the ground water resources located in the center of the islands. through the initiatives of local (NGO) heritage organisations mostly financed by private enterprise. These include Ghallis Tower. With the adoption of the EU environmental aquis. However much still needs to be done. Records show that during the last thirty years 15 such sites of various sizes were in existence at some time or other. Thomas (Marsascala) and Selmun. Local Councils have also been instrumental not only in drawing a�ention to their local cultural monuments. These are contaminated sites and further uses will depend on the degree of remediation which has to be undertaken in the future. Over the years a number of sites were used for disposal of solid wastes. The chain of seventeenth century coastal defense towers popularly referred to as the DeRedin towers (named a�er Grand Master Martin DeRedin who financed many of them) has been similarly affected. one at Maghtab (Malta).
Although this 'noise' is interpreted as a meaningless cacophony by many foreigners. Gozo. 2. All the .BOX 7 Coastal cultural resources – their fate? Christine M. This is not easy to accept if there is no motivation achieved through education. which was implemented by an environmental NGO. The ditch surrounding this ba�ery is sadly filled by rubbish. Mosta) with the financial assistance of MEPA. 1. while the ba�ery itself is in a very bad state and most of its features are lost. these fortifications provide some of the best vantage points from where to enjoy the beauty of Malta's open countryside. such as the chronic habit of disposing of wastes. FWA. Ramla Bay. M'Skala: A total of seven coastal fortifications (Towers) were built in 1610 by Grand Master de Wignacourt. The introduction of new building material and design as well as increased building heights along coastal se�lements has replaced traditional facades along the waterfront (e. Apart from forming an intrinsic part of Malta's historical heritage. along Armier entrenchment wall) and kiosks (e. also known as Ghajn Tuffieha Watch Tower. Thomas Bay. This is still functional today. Thomas Bay. 5. in an effort to circumvent stricter and more costly alternatives. Victoria Lines: The Victoria Lines are a series of fortifications following the contours of the Great Fault which cuts across Malta from the western coast to the eastern coast. Ghajn Mixkuka Tower. Fort Delimara. a�er a Turkish ba�le exposed the limitations of the defense of the area. which was built in 1614. 2004. and much still needs to be done in this area. George's Bay. it is in reality an essential medium for neighborhood communication.9 NOISE As an island having a typical Mediterranean culture. Such practices can (and are) only be controlled through rigorous enforcement of the law. These massive structures were built to dominate the coastline. boat houses (e. On the rear of Fort Tas-Silg. its strategic location on the coast has been lost by the construction of a hotel exactly in front of it. and recent 42 Gaia Foundation. This material chokes valleys and eventually finds itself within the coastal areas into the sea and on the coast.g. built to defend Xrobb l-Ghagin and St. M'Xlokk: This was built on the promontory of Delimara to protect Marsaxlokk harbour. is St. This Tower is located on the extreme edge of the Ghajn Tuffieha headland. a cultural NGO. the reestablishment of the original patrol path along the infantry wall and the reconstruction of parts of the wall (MEPA. This Tower was restored in 2002 as part of an Integrated Coastal Zone Management Plan for Ghajn Tuffieha. Ghajn Tuffieha: This Tower. Close by lies Fort Tas-Silg which was converted into a dog sanctuary. was built in 1637 during the reign of Grand Master Lascaris. These fortifications which span 12km were built by the British Armed Forces between 1870 and 1899. the British abandoned the Tower from any Military use. part of the Victoria Lines were restored through an EU funded project MED-URBS (Cachia Zammit. Paul's Ba�ery. 2003). 3. St. Modern waste management practices depend to a large degree on the motivation and education of citizens. Sustainable waste management also needs considerable (as compared to the existing low standard) financing through the 'polluter pays principle'. This 3-year project involved the reopening of footpaths and the establishment of a nature trail. Although this Tower is currently being restored to its former glory. Julians). Recently. measures to minimise and segregate waste streams show the usual temporary increase in illegal dumping and fly tipping. particularly from agricultural activities (including plastic film and materials) within water courses.g. In 1828. Sliema). the Maltese habitually live in relatively noisy communities. The restoration of this Tower was carried out with the collaboration of the Works Department and Din l-Art Helwa. The strategic location of some coastal towers has been obliterated with the large-scale development (e. Thomas Tower.g. 4. prior to their relocation outside the beach). the Certain other waste management practices have potential impacts on the coastal resources including the marine environment. mounting ba�eries of heavy artillery on their roofs and garrisoned by sizable detachments in times of war. One such Tower was that of St.g. M'Scala) and include structures such as hotels (St. St. The interventions include the removal of rubble and other debris. This initiative is currently being extended to other parts of the Victoria Lines (late 19th century British defensive line at Ta' Kaduma. particularly those not of a Mediterranean origin. A�er being le� neglected for the past 100 years or so. this has housed a pig farm but now lies abandoned and is liable to extensive fly tipping. Tanti Construction works and recreational activities are the main threats to the cultural heritage along the coast. 2003).
sounds convey information and help to knit the local society into a homogeneous entity. discos and other establishments is found to be highly intrusive and unacceptable. The majority of these users prefer a quiet atmosphere thus are easily annoyed by the continual hum of generators and of particularly loud music. Traffic noise is as yet not a major issue in the coastal areas. The local inhabitant will however object to noise to which he is not culturally a�uned. The shi� in the times of use of the coast by the locals from the day time to night is being reflected by the considerable number of beach barbecues. Thus the blaring of music from pubs. 43 . Special concerns are raised by Bingo operations! Another concern is the loud music on the beach. in particular at night times. except when it occurs in residential areas.
44 .
(currently in the process of revision).2 CURRENT PRACTICES IN COASTAL MANAGEMENT The common element in current coastal management is the sectoral approach. a legally recognised document that regulates development. has somewhat been altered since the early 1990s with the establishment of a number of agencies. Consequently misunderstandings on operational procedures in certain sectors were created stalling many efforts from different entities. the Veterinary Service that is involved in aquaculture. the Environment and the se�ing up of the Malta Resources Authority. can the maximum environmental. yet there is no specific reference in current legislation to the coastal zone and coastal zone management. This is testimony to the fact that co-operation can be achieved. Only when integration is fully and reliably achieved. The only current legal document that makes reference to coastal zone management is the Structure Plan. e. In practice however.g. A number of other significant changes had also occurred during the period of the CAMP – Malta project. A tradition established under British rule. spatial development and many activities in the coastal area have had a long but sectoral regulation. within particular activities. However the holistic and integrated management of the coastal area has still to become a reality. with respect to property rights. having broader responsibilities. economic and social benefits be secured. The recent se�ing up of MEPA a�empts to promote the integration of environmental and planning considerations into one regulatory authority In this manner it is anticipated that ICZM will acquire more (and deserved) importance and coherence. a number of inter-agency/ inter-department networks already exist. Numerous Legal Acts and regulations identify responsibilities affecting the majority of coastal uses.CHAPTER VI Policy responses and practices 6. This chapter examines the current policy framework and its implementation. Unfortunately many overlaps in responsibilities were created since the existing legislation and institutions were not brought up to date with emergent legislation. mainly as a result of the harmonisation requirements with European Union Aquis. The areas where such co-operation exists include pollution control. whilst the MTA has no direct involvement in the regulation of the sectors mentioned. Many entities have an interest on and thus have striven to acquire 'rights' on the regulation and control of this very important area. The Ministry for Gozo on the other hand deals with all ma�ers related to Gozo. regulating the functions and obligations of the Planning Authority. The main thrust has however remained focused on the thin coastal zone due to its economic importance. It must be noted that other smaller agencies and departments may also be involved at some stage. 6. as outlined above. These included the adoption of legislation such as that governing Fisheries. to have discrete departments with specific responsibilities. it plays an important consultative role on the effect of such regulation with respect to the Tourism Industry. The only major loophole that exists relates to the marine environment and its administration. water quality monitoring and enforcement of 45 . There are also new agencies that are now also involved in regulating major coastal activities. Additionally. and of the Malta Environment and Planning Authority respectively. Although there are eleven (11) out of the fourteen (14) ministries in the Maltese Islands that are directly involved in regulating coastal areas and uses. There is also no reference for policy co-ordination or co-operation between government entities in their policy formulation stages with the exception of the Development Planning Act.1 INTRODUCTION In Malta.
Technological innovations This class of actions include new techniques. The EPA enables the designation of nature reserves. buildings. It refers to the dra�ing of the verbalised 'political' concepts and includes such technical aspects as are deemed fit and relevant.regulations relating to swimming zones. 5. the Malta Maritime Authority and the Health Division.4. The most obvious one is the co-ordinated effort towards combating and monitoring pollution. between the Civil Protection Department. have come to increasingly understand. material and financial resources (including costs recovery). 6. archaeological.3 POLICY FRAMEWORK A Policy framework for the sustainable management of the coastal areas has been outlined in the CAMP Malta report. assessment. Its main use will be to influence policy formulation and amendment and to verify the success or otherwise of this policy and the degree of sustainability achieved. and associated agencies and NGOs to address issues related to the sustainable use and management of coastal resources. they still require to be put into effect These recommendations encompassed a number of areas: 1. the next best solution is for the institutions involved to clearly identify and acknowledge their responsibilities. Governance The term governance refers to those processes through which policies and plans originate. the Malta Resources Authority. antiquarian or artistic importance. 1992 (DPA). historical. many agencies. together with the methodology for their enforcement and the sanctions to be made in the event that they are infringed. 6. architectural. Protection of coastal resources The protection of coastal resources refers to actions aimed at the conservation and enhancement of coastal resources. that most activities are interrelated and the benefits of policy co-ordination amongst agencies and departments is now being acknowledged. These enable the central and/or local government. These projects are guided by the same principles which provided the main driving force of the entire CAMP project. as well as areas of natural beauty. departments and ministries are currently working on the formulation of formal and binding memoranda of understanding which set out the respective responsibilities and fields of action of each body. and to avoid duplication and wastage of scarce resources. structures and remains of geological. 6. 4. advise and promote the sustainable use of the coastal resources amongst all coastal users. analyses and quality control of data which will be of use to policy makers and coastal users. An important component of this category includes mechanisms for the free dissemination of information and the promotion of information exchange related to activities concerning coastal issues. bird sanctuaries and the protection of particular species of flora and fauna. 46 3. Although the participating institutions subscribed to these recommendations. Economic instruments Sustainable management of the coast also requires adequate economic resources in order to ensure its feasibility. which also benefit the sustainable management of the coastal area. Knowledge and information This involves the collection.1 Coastal legislation The current process whereby protection is afforded to the natural and cultural heritage is through the legal mechanisms provided by the Environment Protection Act. These will eventually ensure a be�er integration of policies and plans. many of these entities. Legal action Legal action follows from the above process. Capacity building This refers to the human. 20018 (EPA) and the Development Planning Act. 7. as evident from the endorsement given at the final presentation conference of the results of MAP-CAMP. necessary to put into effect the expressed wishes of the policy maker/legislator. 2. 8 An Act to Protect the Environment Act XX of 2001 of 18th September 2001 . In the absence of specific legislation calling for such policy integration. Through the participation in CAMP Malta. tools and methodologies which promote and ensure sustainable coastal management. This type of integration could not however fully develop due to the lack of any legal commitment towards such efforts. Thus.4 INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK 6. The Development Planning Act (DPA) affords protection through the Scheduling Process whereby the Planning Authority can designate areas. palaeontological. in order to ensure a seamless coverage in coastal area management. This would also include a component designed to assist. More effort is needed to facilitate this co-ordination in other sectors as well if integrated coastal areas management is to be a�empted.
World Heritage Sites have already been designated under the 1972 Convention. Birzebbuga. The areas of cultural heritage afforded protection include the salt pans along the coast. Development in the marine environment includes land reclamation. there are more than 50 policies that directly or indirectly have an impact on the coastal zone. This has resulted from the custom to have discrete departments with specific responsibilities. Under the European Convention on the Protection of the Archaeological Heritage (1992). to policies addressing issues within particular sectors. The Planning Authority's jurisdiction for development control and planning extends to both land and sea.4. whereas the MMA is responsible for all maritime activities. These two bodies are perhaps now.2 Existing strategies and policies for ICAM Coastal planning requires a holistic approach to address all the demands and impacts arising from development on coastal resources and uses. or was perceived to require some form of Government intervention or regulation.N 160 of 1997 directed towards the Conservation and Maintenance of Rubble Walls and Rural Structures. These policies range from specific policies promoting coastal management. The national framework safeguarding cultural heritage is embedded in the Antiquities Protection Act (1925). for the preservation of material evidence to be studied by later generations. This section looks at the existing policies to identify their effectiveness and suitability with respect to coastal planning at a strategic level. The Development Planning Act of 1992 and the subsequent amendments in Act XXIII of 1997 regulate development control in Malta. 47 . 6. Malta has an obligation to implement the agreed protective measures. and it includes the marine environment as well. These are described in Annex III.3 Existing institutions and responsibilities There has never been a tradition for the holistic or integrated management of the coastal area in Malta. Protection measures implemented under the EPA is limited to the Legal Notice L. The Antiquities Act affords automatic protection to archaeological and historical artifacts present in the Maltese Islands for at least 50 years.ecological or scientific value as scheduled property and make conservation orders to regulate their conservation.4. This has somewhat been altered in the early 1990s with the establishment of a number of agencies namely the Planning Authority and Malta Maritime Authority. These include the Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples. The Convention also calls for the creation of archaeological reserves even where there are no visible remains on the ground or underwater. The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (1982) also calls for the protection of archaeological and historical features found at sea. or when a source of additional government revenue was identified through licensing and permi�ing. (MEPA) which is now Malta's biggest and strongest regulatory authority. each party has to institute a legal system for the protection of archaeological heritage through the provision of an inventory and physical protection preferably in situ. the only agencies with an all-encompassing responsibility extending over space and activities. Through the period covering 1994-1999. Salina Bay and St. beach developments and their related uses. There are over 50 policies within the current Structure Plan that address the coastal area. within the identified geographical space. many of them originating as and when the need arose. The Structure Plan contains a number of distinct policies which directly or indirectly influence the development in the coastal Zone. a number of Sites of Archaeological Importance or Areas of Archaeological Importance on the coast have been scheduled under the DPA. 6. As a Party to a number of international conventions that aim to safeguard cultural heritage. This section looks at how the current planning policy has influenced the coastal zone within the Maltese Islands. George's Bay. With regards to the archaeological sites within marine environment. Although the current Structure Plan has only three policies that specifically address Coastal Zone Management. only three localities have been scheduled to date. aquaculture. This was further strengthened in 2002 with the amalgamation of the former Environment Protection department and the Planning Authority to form the Malta Environment and Planning Authority. restrictive policies on specific sites and activities. These are Ramla Bay in Gozo. the Environment Protection Act (1990) and the Development Protection Act (1992). which are designated as a World Heritage Site under the Convention Concerning the Protection of World Cultural and Natural Heritage (1972). The Structure Plan policies together with the zoning given by the Temporary Provisions Schemes are the main strategic instrument through which development on the coast is controlled. Environment protection and development planning and control over land and sea is the remit of MEPA.
and to thus streamline many processes which in turn would lead to improved efficiency and economy in policy making and implementation. or which are directly or otherwise affected by the policy or regulatory decisions taken in these sectors. the agencies which are primarily charged with the responsibility for these sectors.1 Introduction In Malta an integrated approach to coastal zone management and spatial planning is still missing. . the Armed Forces of Malta. To this effect some of the main issues concerning law and practice are described below to highlight overlapping responsibilities. 6. should also be exercised in a participative manner with other stakeholders including NGOs and the public. It is certainly much easier and quicker for agencies to co-ordinate policies and actions. sectors/area not covered by any institution and common needs. it is increasingly being felt that at the national level there should now follow a rationalization of the many new legal (and other) obligations arising from this political process. Highly sectoral and uncoordinated policy making. The table is a selection some of the important stakeholder concerns. The aim should be to bring within logical entities. and in particular that of policy making. Integration of many viewpoints and concerns also maximizes the specific skills and knowledge base of all the entities participating in the process. and makes maximum benefits from scarce financial and other resources. The following elements of Maltese Coastal Zone Management serve to 48 illustrate some current practices and to highlight the some deficiencies and conflicts which require to be corrected. and Local Wardens are responsible for enforcement of different aspects of regulations and security. These functions. than to establish another entity to take on the mammoth task of coastal management.5.5 COASTAL MANAGEMENT IN PRACTICE 6. The main source of the current problems may thus be a�ributed to a lack of a focus and the lack of a holistic approach within legislation which in turn reflects a lack of understanding of integrated resource management by many law-makers and their respective advisors. regulation and enforcement compound this deficiency. and the other stakeholders which are involved or which are required to make inputs into the process. There is such a dynamic relationship between coastal uses and resources such that the only approach to manage them is through policy integration between government and other regulatory agencies. Following the process of the legal harmonisation with the acquis of the European Union. The agencies having a stakeholder interest or a regulatory function need to adopt a new approach to the implementation of their respective roles so as to ensure a truly sustainable use of this important area. the many duties and powers created by accession.The Malta Tourism Authority is responsible for tourism planning and management whilst the Police.
Beach cleaning Malta Tourism Advances the economic and Authority social activity of tourism by (MTA) working with all stakeholders to develop a sustainable industry.SECTOR: Regulatory institution. Oversees the monitoring and enforcement of regulations. jet skis. Malta Maritime Authority Ministry of Tourism Act (Chapter 274) Tourism Master Plan Carrying Capacity Studies Malta Travel and Tourism Act (Chapter 409) SCUBA diving promotion Winter removal of Posidonia ma�es exposes beaches to erosion Management of conflict of maritime activities (e. paragliding. 49 . (Chapter 352) Heritage Malta Curator of Cultural Heritage Federation of Associations of Travel and Tourism Agencies Maltese Timeshare Association Malta Union of Tourist Guides Professional Diving Schools Association Management of Museums and heritage sites Safeguards and protects cultural resources Cultural Heritage Act (Chapter 445) Cultural Heritage Act (Chapter 445) Industry lobby of providers of tourism services Industry lobby of providers of tourism accommodation services Industry lobby of providers of tourism services Industry lobby of providers of recreational diving services Promotes sports diving Actively discourages underwater (spear) fishing Promotes MCA's as diving locations to view marine life Gozo Tourism Industry lobby of providers of Association tourism services in Gozo. coastal fortifications. enforcement of regulations.g. bunkering activities. Se�ing standards. and other water sports) Mnajdra/ Hagar Qim Heritage Park Protection of wrecks. Sustains the development of Malta's human resources to meet the tourism industry's needs. Malta Maritime shipping. Authority Act Shoreline installations. Department of Strives to implement the Tourism Ministry's objectives. and other similar sites Need strategic plan to address scuba diving as ecotourism Beach replenishment studies Promotion and management of yacht marinas Zoning of bathing areas Needs policy tool to guide on the accessibility and utilisation of cultural sites Regulations regarding the licences of scuba diving schools Management of marinas. monitors implementation of the Malta Tourism Authority's Strategic Plan. or agency Ministry of Tourism and Culture TOURISM Area of responsibility / Function Legislation Policies and strategies relevant to ICAM CAMP Tourism and Health Thematic Activity Planning tools and methodologies relevant to ICAM Social surveys regarding tourist and health (CAMP) Sets policy. temples. dept. standards for accommodation and catering establishments.
dept. Introduced military re-enactment festivals Is instrumental in highlighting the importance of coastal issues and lobbied against privatisation of coastal resources Planning tools and methodologies relevant to ICAM Industry surveys regarding performance of the sector Statutory consultative institution Industry lobby group Cultural heritage NGO Statutory consultative institution No known coastal tools and strategies Commissioned reports regarding coastal heritage but mostly ad hoc. landfills No known policies regarding coastal issues No known policies regarding coastal issues but has been involved in several restoration projects involving coastal fortifications Policy of preservation and appropriate use of coastal (and other) military heritage. Development pressures on the coast and pressure to remove incompatible land uses e. project specific documents participation in EIAs Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna Cultural NGO specializing in Military Heritage Nature Trust Natural heritage NGO Statutory consultative institution Reports regarding natural environment . or agency Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association (MHRA) Rent-a-Car Association Din L-Art Helwa TOURISM Area of responsibility / Function Industry lobby Legislation Policies and strategies relevant to ICAM Vast majority of hotels located along coast.g.participation in EIAs 50 .SECTOR: Regulatory institution.
g. dumping grounds No known tools and strategies specifically targeted at transport along the coast. public transport regulation.SECTOR: Regulatory institution. management of ports. jet skis. marinas and harbours Legislation Policies and strategies relevant to ICAM No definable legislation specifically designed for the coast No definable legislation specifically designed for the coast Management of conflict of maritime activity (e. Parking requirements. Planning tools and methodologies relevant to ICAM Traffic Flow studies which apply to the coast Traffic Flow studies which apply to the coast. paragliding. or agency Ministry of Transport and Communications Malta Transport Authority TRANSPORT Area of responsibility / Function Administration of legislation regarding transport. Malta Transport Authority Act (Chapter 332) Malta Transport Authority Act (Chapter 332) Malta Maritime Authority Malta Maritime Authority Act (Chapter 352) Rent a Car Association Industry lobby Armed Forces Enforcement of regulations of Malta regarding maritime transport (AFM) and zoning regulations within bays and territorial waters Enforcement of Acts and Regulations administered by other Government Agencies 51 . Zoning of water sports in bays Delineation of shipping lanes. dept. and other water sports). licensing. Management of maritime transport within territorial waters. No known policies regarding specific coastal issues No known policies regarding specific coastal issues Manages many coastal locations as operational sites. Traffic calming and routing measures. Regulation of inter island and coastal ferry services. No known tools and strategies specifically targeted at coastal issues. spoil zones. Management of the transport sector (not including marine). Extension of harbor facilities and marinas. Generation of policy regarding the transport sector. bays.
Oil Pollution contingency plan. Control of illegal activities on Code of police the land side of the coast. Continental Shelf Act (Chapter 194). Determining annual catch of protected species harvested (e. Control of Immigration.g. Registration of fishermen and of vessel allowed to harvest resources from the sea. Detection of pollution incidents such as oil pollution. Search and rescue plan. Control of hunting laws.SECTOR: Regulatory institution. including at sea. Control of fishing activities in the fisheries conservation zone. laws. dept. Libya / Malta Median Line agreement. Tuna). or agency Armed Forces of Malta SECURITY Area of responsibility / Function Coastal Patrols Border Security. No specific policies known Conservation of habitats and species in the coastal waters Planning tools and methodologies relevant to ICAM Security contingency plan. No specific policies known. Search and Rescue. Allocation of fishing rights (Lampuki). Legislation Policies and strategies relevant to ICAM Detection of illegalities around the coastal waters. Police Department Local Wardens Fisheries Department Territorial Waters and Contigious Zone Act (Chapter 226). Implements policies established by law or administrative order. Control of areas where trawling is permi�ed. Sensitivity map of the coastal areas 52 . Delegated functions such as Local Wardens traffic management and li�ering Act Protection of fishing resources Fisheries Conservation and management Act (Chapter 425) Civil Protection Department Protection of civilians and Civil Protection Oil Combating economic resources in cases of Act (Chapter 411) contingency plan emergency No specific tools known Fisheries conservation zone and fish stocks management.
beach commercial "concessions" hire of water enterprises cra� Promotes and No known specific disseminated formal tools education including on many coastal related issues.SECTOR: Regulatory institution. Malta Creation and delineation of Maritime bathing zones Authority Local clubs Water Sports e. dept.g. "Notice to Blue Dolphin award Mariners" issued for underwater by MMA photography MMA Act "Notice to Mariners" issued by MMA Planing Guidelines 53 . Youth and Employment Includes responsibility for sports SPORT AND RECREATION Area of responsibility / Function Runs "Skola Sport" a voluntary sport training scheme which includes boating and sailing Legislation Policies and strategies relevant to ICAM Planning tools and methodologies relevant to ICAM Malta Tourism Promotion of SCUBA diving Authority Promotion of Malta as a sailing base in the Mediterranean. Promotes sporting and educational activities. Water Polo and NGOs Various Beach Activities. or agency Ministry of Education. Promotion of boat races.
quarry operators and private abstractors of groundwater. Tunny Fishery (Shares) Act. Malta Centre for Fisheries Sciences NATURAL RESOURCES Area of responsibility / Function Administration of legislation regarding fisheries. Water Framework Directive 2000/60/EC. 54 . Fish Marketing Regulations. operators and tradesmen in the regulated sectors. dept. social and environmental considerations. Strategy aimed at sustaining safe abstraction yield of groundwater. Regulation and management of Fisheries. facilitate the development of mineral extractive industries. exploitation of resources such as oil exploration. Implement monitoring and enforcement. Policy to prevent contamination of acquifer recharge zones. and retailers. Malta Resources Authority Act of 2000. Malta Resources Authority Act of 2000. Directorate for Minerals Resources (of MRA) Responsible for promoting Malta Resources & regulating exploration Authority Act of and development of 2000 Malta's mineral resources. Aquaculture Regulations. Fisheries Conservation and Management Act. Groundwater Directive 80/68/EEC. Prohibition of sale of sea food Regulations. Ensure proper and sustainable use of all water resources in the Maltese Islands while respecting hydro-environmental and socio-economic constraints. maintain historical geological database. or agency Fisheries Conservation and Control Division. Water Framework Directive 2000/ 60/EC and the Groundwater Directive 80/68/ EEC are useful groundwater management tools that have been transposed in the local legislation. Sale of fish Regulations. Mineral Resources Development Strategy that is guided by longterm national development plans. Marine vegetation license Regulations.SECTOR: Regulatory institution. Slipway (use) Regulations. review of legislation and policy to ensure that the extractive industry continues to provide a competitive environment for resource development on sound economic. Fishery Regulations. also responsible for economic regulation. Berthing Regulations. Legislation Policies and strategies relevant to ICAM Fisheries Conservation Zone Planning tools and methodologies relevant to ICAM Fisheries Conservation Zone Malta / EU agreements Malta Resources Authority (MRA) Directorate for Water Resources (of MRA) The Malta Resources Authority regulats of water and energy utilities.
Responsible for the establishment of long and short-term objectives and strategies in the environment field. 1966 Petroleum (Production) Regulations. Legislation Policies and strategies relevant to ICAM Planning tools and methodologies relevant to ICAM Petroleum Production Act. Act XX of 2001 Filfla Nature Reserve Act. XX1 of 2001 Flora. improve the competitiveness of rural areas and preserve the environment and rural heritage. Department of Responsible to safeguard Agriculture fertile soil. Fauna and Natural Habitats Protection Regulations. guidelines and regulations. Malta Environment and Planning Authority Environment Protection Directorate Rural Development Department Strengthen the agricultural sector. Fertile Soil Preservation Act.SECTOR: Regulatory institution. surveillance of exploration activity on Malta's continental shelf. 2003 (Legal Notice 257/03) [Transposition of the Habitats Directive and Natura 2000] Legal Notice 160 of 2002 Convention on Biological Diversity (Incorporation) Regulations Structure Plan for the Maltese Islands Designation and management plans for Special Areas of Conservation Designation and management of Marine Protected areas Biodiversity Action Plans Species Action Plans EIA's for developments proposed in the coastal area Management agreements with NGOs for Natura 2000 sites/ Special Areas of Conservation Local Plans Policy documents on CZM Policy document for Marinas Policy document of Hard Standing for boats. 1958 Continental Shelf Act. caters for the clearing and storing Lands and of fertile soil and Water Section supplying farmers with soil. provides technical support to Government in the form of advice. dept. Rural Development Rural Development Regulation 1257/ Plan for the Maltese 1999 Islands EU Council Regulation 445/2002. responsible for the distribution of treated sewage effluent to the local farmers. No known policy specific to the coastal areas. or agency Oil Exploration Department NATURAL RESOURCES Area of responsibility / Function Administration of petroleum exploration and production in and around Malta. control and management of activities having an impact on the environment through a licensing and permit system. for the se�ing of environmental standards. 2001 Environment Protection Act. (1973) Agriculture and Fishing Industries (Financial Assistance) Act Pesticides Control Act Plant Quarantine Act Wine Act Producer Organisations Act 55 . Act XV of 1998 Development Planning Act. analysis of data.
SECTOR: Regulatory institution. but strong supporter for ICZM 56 . development. Water Services Established in 1993 with Corporation the mandate to undertake research. Institute investigation education of Water and international exchange Technology in the field of water related issues. No known policy. Achieve a more rational and economic use of water in the Maltese Islands through the maintenance of an equilibrium between supply and demand. Water Supply Regulations. XXIII of 1991 as amended by Legal Notice 129 of 1992 and Acts XV of 1995. or agency Water Services Corporation NATURAL RESOURCES Area of responsibility / Function Legislation Policies and strategies relevant to ICAM Planning tools and methodologies relevant to ICAM Desalinization of sea water] Decrease in demand and use of groundwater Policy for the location of RO plants and well fields. dept. Water Services Corporation Act. 1948 as amended. and to support the general social and economic development while protecting the environment. XVI of 1997 and XXV of 2000.
XX1 of 2001 Mainly responsible for major infrastructural works and projects that are carried out throughout the Maltese Islands. transport. the material recovery facility. treatment and disposal of solid and hazardous waste. monitoring and managing waste management facilities including the composting plant. Established in January 2003. Qortin and Wied Fulija. utilistation. recycling. Act activities. Polluter Pays Waste Subject Plan Principle Minerals Subject Best Available Plan Techniques Integrated Pollution Prevention Practices WasteServ Malta Ltd. safeguarding the interest of the construction industry. promoting and managing major construction projects and public cleansing. Operating. XX of 2001 Development Planning Act. dept. rehabilitation of landfills such as Maghtab. in order to develop environmentally sound strategies for their rehabilitation. sorting. Table 1 Responsibilities. or agency Ministry for Resources and Infrastructure Malta Environment and Planning Authority Environment Protection Directorate Ministry for Resources and Infrastructure WASTE Area of responsibility / Function Legislation Policies and strategies relevant to ICAM Planning tools and methodologies relevant to ICAM Formulation and implementation of waste management strategy Regulation and monitoring Environment of waste management Protection Act.SECTOR: Regulatory institution. and stakeholder interests of some main institutions 57 . managing and operating integrated systems for waste management including integrated systems for minimisation. responsible for organizing. engineered landfills and the Gozo waste transfer station. collection. reuse.
Thus no regional benchmarking can be made to enable our situation to be assessed in terms of the state and pressures of the marine and coastal environment. Such data would allow for strategic plans to be developed concerning zoning of activities. the next best solution (and in any case as a prerequisite) is for the institutions involved to clearly and formally identify and acknowledge their responsibilities in coastal management.6. regulating the functions and obligations of the Planning Authority.5. if integrated coastal areas management is to be a�empted. it plays an important consultative role on the effect of such regulation with respect to the Tourism Industry. Through the participation of many entities in CAMP Malta. having broader responsibilities. This type of integration has been limited by the lack of any legal commitment (including formal memoranda of understanding) towards such efforts. the legally recognised document that regulates development. The most obvious one is the co-ordinated effort towards combating and monitoring pollution. the Malta Resources Authority. Lately a new organisation called Heritage Malta has also been set up to coordinate all issues in this specific sector.g. a number of inter-agency/ inter-department networks already exist.5. Although whatever li�le data which is collected is generally freely available. yet there is still no specific reference in current legislation to the coastal zone and coastal zone management. This makes considerable impact on the effectiveness of decision making. between the Civil Protection Department.2 Data collection and management One major other issue which has been identified. These include the adoption of legislation governing fisheries. the Malta Maritime Authority and the Health Division. within particular activities. in some cases. it has became increasingly understood that most activities are inter-related and the added benefits of policy co-ordination amongst agencies and departments is being acknowledged. Thus data on the marine environment particularly on physical parameters (such as sediment transport and currents) and resources (both natural and cultural) is scant. A tradition to have discrete departments with specific responsibilities has somewhat been altered since the early 1990s with the establishment of a number of agencies. Consequently misunderstandings on operational procedures in certain sectors were created stalling many efforts from different entities. It must also be noted that other agencies and departments may additionally be involved at some stage. with respect to property rights. A number of changes also occurred during the period of the CAMP – Malta project itself. The only major loophole that exists relates to the marine environment and its administration.3 General conclusions Today. water quality monitoring and enforcement of regulations relating to swimming zones. areas and uses. It would also allow for effective contingency plans in case of emergencies which would assist decisions in terms of managing oil spills to prevent negative impacts. The Ministry for Gozo on the other hand deals with all ma�ers related to Gozo. The lack of data seriously hampers the participation of stakeholders and the public. 6. with the exception of a number of localised benthic surveys conducted as part of EIAs and Local Plan formulation and as a demonstration for the recently concluded CAMP. Similarly. the environment and the se�ing up of the Malta Resources Authority. Eleven out of fourteen ministries in the Maltese Islands are directly involved in regulating coastal 58 issues. There is also no reference for policy co-ordination or co-operation between government entities in their policy formulation stages with the exception of the Development Planning Act. relates to the scarcity or unavailability of comparable and. This is testimony to the fact that co-operation can be achieved. the common element in coastal management is the sectoral approach. The areas where such co-operation exists include pollution control. In practice however. administrative procedures and institutions were in some cases not brought up to date with the emergent legislation. and especially the compilation and analyses of relevant indicators. . reliable data. whilst the MTA has no direct involvement in the regulation of the sectors mentioned. The only current legal document that makes reference to coastal zone management is the Structure Plan. In the absence of specific legislation calling for such policy integration. particularly when coupled with data on land. the Veterinary Service that is involved in aquaculture. as outlined above. The numerous Legal Acts identify responsibilities and regulations affecting the majority of coastal uses. Unfortunately overlaps in responsibilities were created since the existing legislation. More effort is still needed to facilitate and extend this co-ordination to other sectors as well. e. there is an evident lack of accessibility. and of the Malta Environment and Planning Authority respectively.
These discussions resulted in a true and lasting understanding of "sustainability" and "integrated management". such as direct inputs and emissions and their impact or changes on the ecosystem. appropriate for each indicator so as to ensure a balanced and eventually a sustainable rate of development. 59 . the European Environment Agency is also elaborating a set of indicators which will permit a common understanding of key issues in an effort to assist in the formulation of policy relevant to the protection of Europe's coasts. hazardous substances. so as to facilitate policy formulation. These indigenous (to CAMP Malta) indicators may be compared to those formulated on a regional scale for Coastal Zone Management Thus. These indicators may eventually become. A key element in the CAMP project was the development. resources or human health. At the community level. or generated through the project. and about which some action would need to be taken. combined with an issues/ thematic approach. These obligations will be based on the DPSIR (Driving force. Concomitant with the correct application of the methodology is a strengthening of common understanding (and appreciation by all stakeholders. The concepts initiated by Blue Plan Regional Activity Center who were leading this activity have been developed to a high degree in Malta by the consultants9 engaged by BP. Thus farmers themselves decided on what proportion of length of collapsed rubble walls was acceptable or tolerable. at the local parochial. council or stakeholder level of a number of indicators. to be needless if not even creating excessive hardship. Pressure. Some of these "indigenous" indicators are listed in Annex IV. and that which was not. The concept of this methodology needs to be introduced into many other fields of development in Malta. area. to enable links to be identified between pressures on the environment. In the area of "water". Similarly divers decided on the number of divers which a particular diving location could sustain. forestry and fisheries.6. Apart from these 'CAMP developed' indicators. some of which are very specific and meaningful to certain groups of stakeholders. however the concept of the very localized indicators still needs to be developed and formalized. The methodology developed in Malta has been found to be particularly valuable as an innovative and bo�om up approach whereby stakeholders together developed commonly understandable indicators and their bands of equilibrium between the extremes of 'excessive' and 'deficient'. covering eutrophication and organic pollution. Impact and Response) framework. State. FAO 1998. one also needs to compile other internationally endorsed indicators which reflect issues affecting the coastal 9 Simon Bell and Stephen Morse. Some of the data collected to develop these indicators is managed by the National Office of Statistics. These stakeholder groups then negotiated between themselves to modify the bands of equilibrium when they recognised that what could be a good situation for one group may have been disadvantageous to another. Figure 13 Data aggregation to develop indicators10 10 Reproduced from "Integrated coastal area management and agriculture. a core set of 86 indicators has been proposed. perhaps at Local Council level. as to the requirement to adopt specific policies which may appear at face value and in the short term. based on crude date already available. an integral part of each member state's reporting obligations. The thematic activity entitled Systemic and Prospective Sustainability Analyses resulted in the introduction of one element which had a marked general and specific influence throughout the whole process.6 INTRODUCTION OF NEW TOOLS AND METHODOLOGIES MAP-CAMP Malta introduced several innovations to Malta. which were of some importance to those themselves who developed them. at the European level many countries have elaborated sets of indicators which are of particular relevance to the specific state.
'water quality' etc. before any plans were made. During CAMP.. and is an essential step in participative policy making. is a relatively new phenomenon in the whole decision making process. which are insufficient to gauge the many and conflicting issues. it is felt that these methods are rather 'remote' and 'detached' in their delivery. the protection and the management of the environmental resources of the country were considered solely the task of government. drinking water quality. Further more. Many of the issues in this field were highlighted in the European Commission's Demonstration Programme on Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) which ran from 1996 to 1999. aquatic biodiversity and integrated coastal zone management. The public and NGOs and stakeholders were given information on the current situation. impacts of fishing. and the general lack of integration in coastal zone management. microbiological contamination.9 DISSEMINATION AND EXCHANGE OF EXPERIENCES AND INFORMATION Coupled with the development in the areas of data collection and public participation is a need to disseminate the information acquired. but also from economists. stakeholders were contacted at the inception of the project. This contrast with the previous methods whereby plans and programmes are prepared by a central agency and then approval from the public sought as a conclusion and endorsement of such plans. but not the understanding. CAMP Malta played a very important and innovative role by promoting and implementing a bo�om up approach as against a top down methods as practiced today. which thus continues to take place along sectoral lines.8 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION Until recently. As regards indicators specific to the ICAM process. climate change. to regularly and frequently meet with stakeholders to discuss the issues involved and to gauge current opinion on various ma�ers. Such dialogue needs to take place in non-threatening se�ings and circumstances. water stress. these are still of an essentially sectoral bases. as well as those in enforcement roles. Such efforts at engaging the public need to be maintained so that Malta may eventually move into a new era of participative policy making. Although modern trends seem to favour electronic formats and methods for such dissemination. 6.Plate 26 Ghajn Tuffieha groundwater quality and quantity. The core set will be modified. It has always been felt by the public that at that stage they had no real opportunity to make any significant changes. social scientists. and others so as to secure a balanced and holistic treatment. ICZM indicator development (indeed to the ICZM process itself) requires an input not only from natural scientists. This "public role". ecological quality. They may convey the information. 6. . This was usually carried out by enacting laws and then enforcing them. and then together plans were made for their correction or resolution. It is felt necessary for those who work in policy development. however. There is now a strong awareness that the population as a whole together with Government and all other stakeholders. such as 'fisheries' 'sediment management'. are jointly responsible for the preservation of our environment. improved and developed over time as more comparable and spatially extensive datasets become available as the Water Framework Directive is gradually implemented by the Member States. "Public responsibility" needs to be 60 developed and encouraged so that it may influence the decision-making process.
including regulatory agencies.1 GENERAL ISSUES In Malta. It is evident that the natural characteristics as well as the type and level of development present have created marked differences within the coastal zone on the Maltese Islands. for public use. even along urban areas. relating to the coastal areas are: Water shortages and water pollution Population growth Urban expansion. it is probable that future development proposals for marine uses will also increase. Other pressures put upon the marine side of the coastal zone. 7. MAP-CAMP Malta also showed that many of the main environmental pressures in the Maltese territory are generated in this space. Integrated Coastal Area Management is directed at joining up and treating in a holistic manner all the different actions and policies which have or may have an effect on coastal regions. however the activities and studies carried out as part of the project also confirmed that many of the impacts can trace their origins in the hinterland either as specific and well defined 'hot spots' such as quarrying or animal husbandry related activities. Malta has an urgent need to introduce and apply the new tools acquired and refined during the project. As a result of the small size and high population there are no places in the Maltese Islands that can be considered to be remote and thus safeguarded from human activities. With the potential of marine related development still not fully exploited. In addition the losses of coastal heritage. thereby affecting whole valley systems or watersheds. as identified in the CAMP are recreation. A strategic approach is thus required to ensure that these varieties are retained within a framework that safeguards both the natural and cultural heritage as well as to ensure adequate use of the coast by legitimate coastal uses.2 MAJOR LEGITIMATE EXPECTATIONS The major legitimate coastal use which requires a coastal location. is high. and 61 . and interested stakeholders. as well as from transboundary effects such as pollution (such as oil spills) incidents originating in neighboring states or on the high seas. and the demand for free and the equitable access and multiple use of coastal areas for such purposes. The scope of this part of the report is to make suggestions as to the future of ICAM over the forthcoming 20 year period It is envisaged to guide the actions of relevant concerned. or in practices of a more diffused manner.CHAPTER VII General issues relating to ICAM MAP-CAMP showed that. The current policies are not sufficient to protect coastal areas. In the absence of a holistic policy direction. If no policy changes are made. coastal spaces will continue to be removed from the 'public domain' in spite of the clear requirements of the Structure Plan. the potential for conflicts between marine uses as well as coastal activities. It is clear that in such a small island. Unless protective policies are formulated. in order to achieve sustainable development in the coastal area. both natural and cultural. coastal areas available for informal recreation will continue to decrease. could arise from activities and incidents originating in the internal or territorial waters. This applies especially to the coast. most development types requiring a coastal location are requesting the same space that is being sought for informal recreation by both locals and tourists alike. tourism and recreation Air pollution Sediment movement and coastal erosion Mineral extraction Over fishing and aquaculture Transport congestion Endangered species Habitat loss 7. will be irreversible. CAMP has shown that the key issues of concern.
First and foremost. seasons. including that found underwater. This would also have to apply for rehabilitation projects of derelict waterfronts where the maritime activities that characterised the area need to be incorporated within the new projects in order to retain the vitality of our heritage. Zoning of coastal lands for specific recreational uses. and act as a watchdog over the performance of the official entities and agencies. cultural. The 62 . has to be safeguarded. following the compilation of a detailed inventory. and social diversity is protected and enhanced. The cultural heritage along the coastal zone. from incompatible uses.4 TOURISM DEVELOPMENT IN COASTAL AREAS Tourist development should be carried out in such a way as to ensure that the environmental. particularly within the marine environment is necessary. Specific issues concerning tourism that need to be addressed by a coastal strategy are directed primarily at safeguarding popular tourist areas. 7. Similar protection of other areas. or the economic viability of existing sustainable commercial activities. or for nature and wildlife conservation should be encouraged. Inland as well as offshore a�ractions should be promoted to relieve pressures on the immediate coastal areas. Any coastal uses present in the vicinity of such remains have to be regulated so as to preserve such structures as well as their contextual landscape. including dive sites. within a framework that acknowledges the presence of other legitimate coastal activities and uses. The following strategies are suggested for more detailed studies and the preparation and adoption of policies and performance indicators.Plate 27 The public expects equitable access to coastal areas the public and NGOs who in many cases provide a 'voice' for the expectations of the public. and allow for the possibility of establishing disturbance-free zones in the habitats of threatened or endangered species. The officially adopted TOURISM CARRYING CAPACITY ASSESSMENT carried out for the Malta Tourism Authority by PAP can ensure an optimal sustainably managed future tourism activity when merged with the coastal areas management programme in an overall markedly improved sustainability in the inland and especially the coastal areas.3 CULTURAL RESOURCES With respect to cultural resources legal protection has been effective in controlling the types and level of activities permissible within Scheduled Areas. Measures to protect existing sandy beaches and low-lying rocky shorelines within popular bathing areas from development are also necessary. 7. it needs to meet the needs of the local community without compromising the natural or cultural values which are a�ractive to tourists in the first place.
Guarding sovereignty involves operations of physical and electronic surveillance. abseiling and para-gliding. giving due consideration of other legitimate coastal uses to avoid unnecessary negative impacts. which requires space on the coast for hard standing. These could divert sporting activities from the hinterland. Additionally. All these geopolitical elements could increase the demand for coastal resources to cater for this new need. car racing and flying. At the same time. Other coastal areas could however benefit from the development of sporting facilities. Similar considerations need to be taken with respect to the yachting industry. Indeed they form large percentage of our protected areas. 7. The selection of bunkering sites as well as offshore spoil grounds need to be considered within a much broader context than one based solely on issues of safety to navigation. areas where potential off-shore development related to tourism is possible may be identified. thus leading to an new tourism product. 'functioning' habitats. technologies and construction techniques which minimise resource use in 63 .5 MARITIME ACTIVITIES These activities are still expected to continue at an increasing level. A high standard of living makes Malta a�ractive for illegal immigration. Innovative designs. 7. will lead to farming as a substitute activity. It is also recognised that such coastal facilitates could be shared by tourists during the periods when they are not in use by locals (e. The fortifications erected in medieval and later periods have been pressed into use to cater for this function. within the coastal areas. which.8 DESIGN AND PLANNING The possibility of refurbishing existing (especially if dilapidated) buildings and facilities should be fully explored before any new construction is considered. indeed equitable planning should ensure that the availability of 'views' are secured for the maximum number of residencies. from an ecological standpoint. the ecological and geomorphologic characteristics and the presence of other users within and along such a limited coastline make it particularly difficult for this industry to expand unless cage units are taken further offshore within sites specifically zoned and prioritised for this type of activity. Where these are considered necessary. Recent events have shown that the Maltese have an aptitude for these disciplines and can succeed in international competitions even at Olympic level. seem to indicate that they can now be relocated further offshore and in deeper waters where their spatially related impacts can be be�er absorbed. such as rock climbing.1 Sporting activities Many of the coasts of the island are of outstanding significance in regard to beauty and biodiversity. 7. impact upon these last outposts of nature. Both require operational bases and sites. where space and ecological constraints work against such land intensive sport as golf.4.provision for and protection of access facilities along the coast is another issue which has to be provided in recreational/touristic areas. 7. Other legitimate uses that take place within harbour areas need to be safeguarded as well. if the supply of fish proteins in our diet is to be maintained. may already be in progress. so as not to displace activities such as diving and fishing. particularly in anchoring methodology. A process leading to a drop in species diversity and a loss of intact. The spatial requirements for these activities need to be safeguarded but not at the expense of the coastal characteristics. Recent technological advances in the operational aspects of fish farms. Fish farming and aquaculture activities will probably expand. The area of recreational and competitive boating and sailing needs to be further developed. One consequence of this is that the biological diversity of Malta is steadily declining. both from a natural as well as a cultural perspective. 7.7 SECURITY ISSUES The coastal areas are effectively (but not legally) the most evident and convenient demarcation of National Territory from where jurisdiction over territorial sovereignty is exercised up to the internationally accepted limits. The development/maintenance of Cirkewwa and Mgarr harbours. Buildings which impair the quality of scenic views should be avoided. This could be driven by increased profit margins. during weekdays). Several touristic and locally oriented 'extreme' type of sporting activities. but also by stricter measures on the conservation of wild fish stocks. in order to safeguard the natural resources as well as existing and potential coastal and marine uses. touristic pressure on our coasts is disproportionately high. they should be compatible with the architecture and environment of the surrounding area.g.6 FISH FARMING With respect to aquaculture.
and coastal sites are prime locations for such farms. activities should be modified to minimise or mitigate environmental impacts.4 Beach nourishment and marina development The perception that tourists need to spend time on sandy beaches. the perception that some sandy beaches have regressed due to natural transport of sand has lead to the desire to artificially augment the sand on beaches. There is also a commitment to reduce our emissions of greenhouse gasses. 7. The selection of sites for future quarry operation has to give deeper considerations to the impacts to the natural environment.1 Siting of buildings and infrastructure Development which does not require a coastal location can be concentrated outside of the coastal strip. efforts should be made to monitor impacts on the coastal environment.8. both in terms of topography. However due the small size of the Maltese Islands and the intensity of coastal uses.5 Quarrying The main issues relating to mineral extraction are related to the different stages of quarry development and abandonment.8.8. 7.2 Wind energy farms There is a strategic and environmental need in Malta to diversify energy sources. Many new hotel development also strive to achieve a 'postcard' appearance and location. 2003) construction and future operations of the building should be encouraged and supported. and the drive to a�ract to the island a new type of tourist desiring a cruising type of experience. 7. If unforeseen impacts arise. there is a considerable limitation on the extent of possible development projects necessitating land reclamation from the marine environment.Plate 28 Collecting salt from pans at Qbajjar in Gozo (Vella. Once facilities are built. 7. Areas known to have mineral reserves should as far as possible be protected from certain types of development. Their siting and any resulting impacts of such emergent and innovative development still need to be ascertained. Marina development is also connected with increased affluence amongst local residents.8. This translates in the development of cruise liner terminals and the development of marinas to enable cruising yachts and super yachts to spend time in Malta. 7. with the objective of rehabilitating these sites for multiple uses. and seek to have an adjacent sandy beach concession. 64 . and resources utilisation. Implementation programs for restoration schemes for both existing and future quarries need to be developed in line with the existing characteristic of the adjacent coastal areas.3 Land reclamation This is a potentially a�ractive method of using inert rubble and stone.8. The erection of wind farms can be one way to generate "green electricity".
particularly in urban areas is essential. These include extensive paving (roads. These species can also help to bind soils reducing water induced soil erosion. in restaurants and informal eating places. 7.8.6 Salt pans With respect to salt production the main concern is related to lack of adequate protection and the identification of suitable alternative use. It is also essential to ensure ecological corridors which ensure the continuity. They are also important resting grounds for waders in transit to and from Europe.Plate 29 Elevated road across valley which allows movement of wildlife and sediments across (Vella. indigenous species should be used for landscaping. and other such barriers do. because where this has been carried out they serve to a�ract considerable numbers of people away from beaches and other sensitive locations.8. The construction of impervious roads and structures which impedes such a flow should be stopped and where they exist remedied.8 Promenades The new construction of traditional (and popular) shoreline promenades should be avoided. sand and sediments.7 Roads Although access to the coastline. integrity and ease of the flow of runoff waters. Some of these have been in operation from the Roman period and many from medieval times. The policy of road building adjacent to the coastline also needs to be revisited since roads could form barriers to the movement of sand. in a manner which is without great impacts to the environment.9 Landscaping Designs should ensure that natural vegetation is le� intact as much as possible. Where this is not possible. bad animal waste management practices which pollute ground water and particularly water courses during intense periods of rainfall. as these will disturb coastal dynamics in much the same way that roads. Landscaping should be planned so as to avoid the need for excessive watering (and appropriately treated effluent should be used for watering vegetation). land take up from undeveloped low-lying shorelines is to be used for this purpose should not be encouraged. following consideration of the environmental and amenity characteristics of each particular area. 65 . flora and fauna.8. 7. to the promenades where they can exercise. rows of hotels. 7. as well as of flora and fauna to and from the coast and into the hinterland.8. It is more profitable to upgrade existing locations. destruction of (even by neglect) of rubble walls and similar structure. from the coast to and from the hinterland. There seems to be a need for small car-park facilities to be identified along certain coastlines. Activities which increase the volume or toxicity of run-off should be avoided. country roads and parking spaces). interact socially as well as participate in formal and informal recreation. 2002) 7. Interference with natural run-off pa�erns should also be avoided.
From a strategic point of view this is translated into the prevention of incompatible development from taking place in the vicinity of the proposed locations. as well as at the operational base where equipment and material are stockpiled and personnel congregate. toiletries). 7. cleaning and waste collection and disposal. These have potential impacts on the coastal resources including the marine environment. 7. dredging and placement of moorings. The coastal implications need to be assessed. Another waste related topic concerns the chronic habit of disposing of wastes. by providing and managing adequate waste receptacles. Coastal visitor and information centers should be made interesting and a�ractive to encourage tourists to make use of them. These activities can be very disruptive and damaging to coastal ecosystems. When disposable products are used.9 SOLID WASTE COLLECTION AND TREATMENT PROGRAMMES Tourism also has impacts on environmental quality. There is also a need to distribute treated waters to where they will be used. but which in effect results in the coast being 'in use' continuously leads to difficulties in management such as maintenance. The collection. 66 . This material chokes valleys and eventually finds itself within the coastal areas and into the coast. where different 'clients' use the coast at different times. they should be made of recyclable materials.10 Pipelines and cables The main issue is related with safeguarding this economically important infrastructure from incompatible development. This applies to many of our secluded bays and stretches of coastline which are being 'discovered' by beach users intent on ge�ing away from crowded locations. preferably paper.1 Li�er Provisions should be made to keep beaches clean and free from li�er. sanitary facilities.11 Oil exploration The major issue concerning oil exploration is relate to the potential impacts arising from the industry with respect to coastal and marine resources as well as uses. Impacts can arise at the exploration site itself. including by providing sufficient waste receptacles. cups. including reducing their wastes and preventing it from escaping into the marine environment.10 SEWAGE Sewage treatment plants in Malta are coastal development projects. hotels and other businesses located near the seafront should adopt proper waste management practices. may be inadequate. In turn such infrastructure. A main issue is the location of new waste transfer. and their maintenance and or periodic replacement require works such as land and marine side trenching. Shops. Efforts to recycle should be encouraged by making make waste separation receptacles conveniently available Businesses should be encouraged to avoid the use of disposable products (plates. treatment and disposal sites which are currently located in the coastal zones. treatment and disposal of solid and/or liquid wastes.7. tour operators. particularly during peak tourist seasons. tourists. They should also make efforts to reduce li�er generated by their customers. particularly from agricultural activities (including plastic film and materials) within water courses. especially in low lying areas. 7. There will certainly be a larger proportion of land under permanent irrigation.9.8.8. The provision of suitable locations for the proposed sewage treatment plants needs to ensure that impacts on other uses as well as on the coastal resources are minimised. 7. restaurants. These changing pa�erns of use. The Institute of Tourism Studies should reinforce its activities in this area. Second class water produced from treatment plants will result in a considerable additional amounts of available water for irrigation and other uses.11 EDUCATION Informing locals. in an economic and energy efficient manner. and carrying out regular beach clean-ups. and staff about ways to reduce environmental impacts should be an integral component of tourism development plans. Provisions for the handling and treatment of solid waste generated by tourist facilities should be arranged prior to their development in close cooperation with local authorities. Educational materials and exhibits emphasising respect for the local environment and culture should be provided by all major hotel establishments. utensils. arising from potentially inappropriate waste management practices. etc. 7. table cloths.
lifeguards and first aid stations. 7. Typical night time uses are mainly barbecues and on occasion discos and similar public activities.12. Warning systems in case of danger from water and climatic conditions should be posted and advertised. 7.13 HEALTH AND SAFETY ISSUES As many beaches and rocky costs should be covered by the services of beach patrols. Night time use is essentially reserved for older independent users and family groups. An even smaller proportion consists of the more popular sandy type. These beaches cannot cater for all these users. 7.14 BEACH MANAGEMENT PLANS Plans for the management of both rocky as well as sandy beaches should be drawn up.12 RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES Access to previously undeveloped coastal areas for recreational purposes should only be permi�ed if the nature and/or character of the area will not be harmed. Many users utilise the beach from sunset up to very late at night.1 Changes in recreational pa�erns Malta is a small island and consequently has a small length of coastline. Facilities for sports which a�ract large numbers of spectators should not be sited on the coast. This is a good example of multiple use of scarce resources. Nature has thus endowed the country with limited beaches. and for the use of relatively young persons. There has however been a process of adaptation in that users have chosen to utilise beach resources at what may appear to be rather unusual hours. 67 . These leaves the morning hours essentially for tourist use.7.
CHAPTER VIII The future of ICAM in Malta
8. INTRODUCTION This chapter proposes to suggest how the 'vision' concepts, outlined in the previous parts of this document, could be realistically put into practice. Although they have received a high degree of consensus during the CAMP programme, and during its concluding conference, they still need to be brought into effect. It also needs to be emphasised that any such plans and guides would require periodic formal review, potentially modifying the suggested action programmes so as to make them be�er equipped to deal with any new pressures and impacts which may arise over the intervening years. This is especially important now that as a member of the EU, the many opportunities becoming available could facilitate rapid development which could affect the coastal areas, requiring the urgent need to adopt integrated coastal area management practices. This requirement is indeed recognised at the community level. In order to achieve the transition from theory to reality key institutions and agencies need to: 1. Make advances towards achieving an integrated and ecosystem approach of the coast, by giving consideration to the interrelation of physical, biological and geomorphological processes, and relevant aspects such as biodiversity, social progress, degree of satisfaction, and particularly advances towards devising objective economic valuation techniques for externalities of main impacting activities. 2. Emphasise the need to agree upon a common understanding of the "coastal zone" in functional terms, and a common sense of vision of how we wish the coast to meet the needs of current and future generations as well as the interpretation of ICAM as a pro-active tool to facilitate appropriate development of coastal areas and resources. 3. Consider the urgent need to define precise scenarios and their probable consequences, in co-ordination and with the further assistance of the relevant International Bodies, such as UNEP MAP, concerning the priorities identified by CAMP Malta. Short-term financial profits 7. 4.
should not prevail over broader, long-term economic, social and environmental costs. Promote the general use of existing comparable indicators i.e. for sustainable development, and if appropriate to develop specific indicators on a national or local basis to provide standardised descriptions of the status of the coast and possible impacts of human activities, as well as of international progress made towards ICZM. Make advances in the management and development of knowledge, specifically, in knowledge organisation, in the light of the opportunities provided by new technologies, and supported by common, systematic and standard formats, capable of producing standardised data bases that facilitate the flow of information on a national (and international) scale with the use of standardised G.I.S. too. Compile a Guide to Good Practices for ICAM in Malta, with particular reference to main impacting activities (i.e. tourism, fishery, aquaculture, harbours management, urban planning in coastal zone, water management and biodiversity conservation) so as to integrate horizontal decision making processes, and also provide a foundation for communicating the benefits brought by ICAM implementation. Promote ICAM on a local scale11, in the conviction that local councils (representing the local viewpoint or interest) and stake-holders play an essential role in the success of ICAM. Furthermore emphasising the possibility to use spatial planning integrated with sea-use planning and marine resources management, at national, regional and local level as a way to apply a holistic and dynamic perspective in ICAM in order to create a common vision of the sustainable development in the coastal zone and to ensure dialogue and participation of local and national stakeholders. Take advantage of, and encourage the creation of synergies arising in the application of numerous national and international instruments or initiatives affecting the coastal zones. such as the work of the National Commission for Sustainable Development, large-scale and micro-scale financing/
11 At local council level.
investment instruments and national/regional/ local co-ordination of initiatives and subsequent strategies on ICZM. Camp identified a number of key issues and processes both natural as well as human and societal. Not all of them can be addressed by a coastal strategy within a customary planning process. The Structure Plan is essential but it is only a spatial planning tool focusing mainly on spatial demands, and any coastal strategy it adopts is but one tool towards the goal of Integrated Coastal Areas Management. There are many suitable tools and mechanisms to cater for the requirements of sustainable and integrated coastal areas management.. Taking as a bases the general and popular endorsement of the coastal vision as described in the "Coastal 12 Declaration" , and its support by the stakeholders during the final presentation conference, we may propose the following measures designed primarily to bring into effect the ideals and principles set out in the 'vision' In the first instance we believe that the bases for the sustainability (in time) of such new initiatives and proposals need to be grounded and strengthened by legal backing and appropriate institutional provisions, including financial security. 8.1 LEGAL PROVISIONS In order to ensure continuity, the process of ICAM needs to be formalised and institutionalised. It is therefore proposed that in the first instance and as a ma�er of some priority, the Coastal Zone of Malta should be defined through a legal notice issued jointly under the Environment Protection Act and the Development Planning Act. This new legal instrument should also be used to launch a Coastal Resources Advisory Board, as an advisory board within the general consultative structures of the Malta Environment and Planning Authority. Its general conception would be closely modeled and related to, but in many ways improved, the currently existing Heritage Advisory Commi�ee. This new commi�ee will be called the "COASTAL RESOURCES ADVISORY BOARD". It will have no executive powers, its main being to advise the MEPA regarding any and all forms of development and any activity which is proposed to take place in the defined coastal zone of Malta.
12 Annex I
It will also have the means to conduct surveys, research, and monitoring activities, and to disseminate the outputs of such initiatives, to selected audiences and (in concurrence with the Arhus Convention) widely to the general public. It is also proposed that CRAB would be represented (by its chairperson) on Malta's National Commission for Sustainable Development, and would be a formal subcommi�ee of the Commission, entrusted with ensuring the sustainability of the coastal regions. 8.2 INSTITUTIONAL PROVISIONS CRAB will be chaired by the Environment Protection Director (or his representative), and will have as member key persons who can give a contribution to the debate and to policy formulation (for submission to MEPA). Another key group of persons will be representatives elected or nominated by stakeholders, including representatives of Local Councils, NGOs, socioeconomic actors, and the general public. It is also suggested that, to the fullest extent possible, those members who have actively participated in CAMP Malta, should be retained on CRAB. A mistake that must be avoided at all costs is omi�ing the involvement of local stakeholders at the beginning of plan development. Two processes may be identified in which local stakeholders may interact between themselves. The first one is the plan development process and second the decision making process. Communication between stakeholders on these processes is seen as a main tool for participation. A new concept in policy and plan development is interactive policymaking. Making use of shared responsibility and finding common interests needs to be seen as inevitable and essential for further plan development and participation in such initiatives. MEPA could also support the CRAB by making provisions for its secretariat (Secretary and an assistant) whose only function will be to service CRAB. 8.3 PROPOSED FUNCTIONS OF CRAB This advisory group will thus in essence be a collaborative involvement of organisations and individuals in the planning and management of ICZM initiatives.
Its main tasks could be to propose and suggest initiatives leading to: Coherent spatial planning Improved decision making Improved stakeholder understanding Agreement on prioritisation Fostering a strong community feeling and thus participation and concurrence Promote a be�er quality of life through "coastal" services and facilities Reduced pollution (from all sources) Recommend measures leading to sustainable fishing and aquaculture Recommend measures leading to sustainable tourism Promote habitat conservation and restoration Promote and suggest measures leading to reduced erosion.4 WORKING METHODOLOGY CRAB would work in a CONTINIOUS but CYCLICAL manner Plate 14 Operations of CRAB 71 . desertification and flooding Generally act to lower environmental risks - Initiate and or support research programs Promote greater public awareness Conduct periodic people satisfaction surveys Disseminate information concerning all aspects of Coastal Zone Management Promote and implement formal and popular educational initiatives Suggest landscape improvement measures and the conservation and restoration of rubble walls and rural features Suggest sustainable measures to improved the economic returns from coastal resources Promote the creation and maintenance of Blue Flag status beaches 8.
72 .
legal action.CHAPTER IX Examples of coastal management in practice In order to give practical examples of what is being taking place in the field of integrated coastal area management. These were largely elicited from the concerns of stakeholders and conditioned the orientation of the project towards a "bo�om up" approach where problems and issues perceived by stakeholders and the public in general. economic instruments. the Systemic and prospective sustainability analysis was produced on CD. they will strengthen integration of the policies and actions set out in this document.1 MAP CAMP . They are however mainly stand alone activities. This structure was consistent with the Mediterranean Action Plan's Coastal Area Management Programme which has been applied in eight other locations around the Mediterranean Basin. the role of the team leaders of most thematic activities was seen as more of facilitation rather than prescription. CAMP Malta delivered a set of strategies and specific actions which are meant to address. CAMP Malta had a lengthy preparatory phase and a short implementation phase. but they serve to illustrate the present state of play. The key issues were organised according to the three principles of sustainable development -environmental integrity. In a few cases the methodologies proposed were refined to be�er adapt them to the local scenarios which was necessitated by the smaller size of the country and thus the areas under study. The identification and organisation of a series of key issues was another crucial output of the Project. Such project eventually need to work in harmony and synergy. tourism and health. categories include governance. i. and result in demonstrable and truly integrated coastal management from which sustainable development and benefits to the community as a whole can be derived. correct or mitigate identified problems. The production of these maps involved the application of techniques which are innovative for Malta. It was the product of a series of five thematic activities (i. and many are following their own "life" with li�le formal input from the MAP-CAMP project. This action plan was organised into another set of matrices outlining proposed strategy elements aimed at bringing about the required changes. These thematic activities were complemented by three transversal activities. An important output of the CAMP Malta Project was the production of a set of thematic maps. thus facilitating integration and the identification of gaps. economic feasibility and social equity. focusing on sustainability analysis and the development of sustainable indicators.e. data management and overall coordination of the Project. 73 .THE MALTA PROJECT MAP CAMP Malta was the first exercise in integrated coastal area management carried out in the Maltese Islands. A Final Project Database containing data compiled. CAMP Malta incorporated and produced a number of important innovations. collated and captured by the five thematic activities as well as for the horizontal activity. This was very useful and successful since it was in line with the funding cycles of donor agencies. This was carried out mainly by applying the methodologies and tools of ICAM and thereby identifying a strategy and action plan for ICAM in NW Malta. water resources management and marine protected areas) which addressed specific sectors regarding different problems and issues pertaining to the Maltese coastline. Furthermore. The broad objective of CAMP Malta was to increase national efforts towards sustainable management and environmental protection in Malta. capacity building. In this respect. knowledge and information. sustainable coastal management. so that during their implementation. were accorded the highest priority. erosion/ desertification control management. A�er identifying and analyzing sets of key issues and their interactions. These functional and spatial gaps also included emerging issues.e. the following projects have been identified. 9. In this respect. technological innovations and the protection of coastal resources.
education and public participation. the Gaia Foundation.2 GHAJN TUFFIEHA/RAMLA L-HAMRA The Project of Ghajn Tuffieha (l/o Mgarr. One of these sites is a stretch of coast from Rdum Majjiesa to Ras ir-Raheb in the northwest of Malta. The Project thus aimed to reconcile the simultaneous use of these sites for nature protection and for tourism.control of activities within the area. Malta) and ir-Ramla (l/o Nadur. Therefore.3 REGIONAL PROJECT FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF MARINE AND COASTAL PROTECTED AREAS IN THE MEDITERRANEAN REGION (MEDMPA) The MedMPA (Regional Project for the development of marine and coastal protected areas in the Mediterranean region) is a Project financially supported by the European Commission and is coordinated by MAP RAC/SPA. Both sites are nationally recognized as sites of landscape value and are so far largely unspoilt by anthropogenic influence. an activity on a pilot study for the evaluation.9. 74 .scientific research. in partnership with the Gaia Foundation and with the support of the Ministry for Rural Affairs and the Environment. implemented between 1999 and 2003. 9. i. This Project focused on the integrated and holistic management of specially protected coastal areas in the Maltese Islands. During the MAP CAMP Malta Project.Italy) are Project partners. the results and outputs of this activity are being used to elaborate a management plan for the site as a Marine Protected Areas within the framework of the MedMPA Project. Gozo). . Funds were secured through the European Union as part of the EU Life Third countries programme. The outputs of this activity confirmed preliminary works carried out in this area and justified the proposal that the area is a suitable candidate for a Marine Protected Area. where ICRAM is providing technical assistance to MEPA in the Project. . This was achieved through the implementation of good management practices for the sustainable use of two coastal areas of conservation value in the Maltese Islands. This Project commenced in 2001 and is expected to conclude in July 2004. .species and habitat protection. Previous reports have identified candidate sites as a Marine Protected area in the Maltese Islands.e. was coordinated by the Euro-Mediterranean Centre on Insular Coastal Dynamics (ICoD). The management of these two sites has been entrusted to a local NGO. The management plan aims to provide the means for: . designation and drawing up of a management plan for a Marine Protected Ras on the northwestern coastal of Malta was implemented. The Malta Environment and Planning Authority and ICRAM (Instituto Centrale per la Ricerca Scientifica e tecnologica applicata al mare .
Schembri.) National Awareness Seminar on land degradation and desertification . P. Role'. Ltd.. (1999) Application of the Aarhus Convention in the Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) process. Mercadié. Floriana. 1998. Biologia Marina Mediterranea. E. Malta.Hospitaller Military Architecture (1136-1798). Borg. Floriana. Camilleri. and Vella. preliminary results. Stevens. Heritage Interpretation Services. Malta. Environment Protection Department. 1. Volume 1. A. A.Proceedings of Seminar 3rd . 1998. Proceedings of a Conference on the Management of Marine Contamination Hazards (V. Issued on 19 July 2001. Borg J.). In: Baldacchino. Floriana. Axiak. Eds. Environment Protection Department (1999) State of the Environment report 1998. Malta. Report drawn up by Coastal Zone Management Team for MAP CAMP Malta Project.4th June. Malta. Malta. Proceeding of the 5th Medmaravis Symposium.. 2nd edition. Issue No. Printcare Ltd. Approaches. Sant. M. 7(2): 361-364. Floriana. Issued on 5 June 2001. Tanti (Eds. Floriana. T. Environment Protection Department.Search area policy (Amendment). J. J. Newsle�er of the Malta Heritage Trust. Malta. and C. A. Malta. In: Monitoring and conservation of birds. Environmental issues series No. 75 . 35/2001. M.Proceedings of Seminar 3rd . 29 September – 3 October 1998 (Yesou and Sultana. (1998) Degradation of the terrestrial environment in the Maltese Islands. Malta. Valle�a: National Statistics Office. J. Floriana. Schembri. MEPA (2002) State of the Environment Report for Malta. Report drawn up by Coastal Zone Management Team for MAP CAMP Malta Project. France.. Malta. EEA (2000) State and pressures of the marine and coastal Mediterranean environment. A. Malta. 2002. R. Environment Protection Department. Planning Authority. Dunkerque.).. (1998) The importance of vegetation on the choice of nesting sites by Cory's shearwater Calonectris diomedea in Malta.fao. Department of Fisheries (2002) h�p://www. Université du Li�oral. E. Tanti (1999) National Awareness Seminar on land degradation and desertification . Planning Authority (2000) Coastal Profile I. (2000) Structural changes in a Posidonia oceanica meadow exposed to a pollution gradient from a marine fish-farm in Malta (Central Mediterranean). 5. Malta. Progress Press Co. Ed.The Problem and its Management. Malta. Cachia Zammit. Ministry for Home Affairs and the Environment. and C. J. (2003) Malta's Heritage – The Victoria Lines. A. Malta. 68/2001. Experiences and Sources. Floriana.. M. Dimech M. MEPA (2003) Rural Strategy Topic Paper. E. Cachia Zammit (Editor). A. V. Floriana. Prepared by Malini Mehra IMSA. Environment Protection Department.4th June. Planning Authority. 2004.. D. Malta. Malta. Malta.BIBLIOGRAPHY Baldacchino. M.org/fi/fcp/en/MLT/profile. Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna (2003) Wirtna. In: Marine Pollution in Malta . EEA (1997) Sustainable Development for Local Authorities.. (1994) Solid waste management: the Traditional versus sustainable approaches. Issued on 18 April 2001. In: Baldacchino. Malta. A. Valle�a: National Statistics Office. Malta. (1998) Land degradation and urbanization in an island state. NSO (2001) New Release No. Mallia. NSO (2001) New Release No.4th June. NSO (2001) New Release No. (2002) Natural Resources.. Valle�a: National Statistics Office. Tanti (1999) National Awareness Seminar on land degradation and desertification . Spiteri (1994) Fortresses of the Cross . Planning Authority (2000) Coastal Profile II. S. Malta Environment and Planning Authority. 54/2001. Floriana. Malta. mammals and sea turtles of the Mediterranean and Black Seas. T. Accessed on 11th March. R. 1998.Proceedings of Seminar 3rd . and Schembri P. J. Planning Authority (2002) Coastal Strategy Topic Paper. E. Planning Authority (2001) Policy & Design Guidance on Fishfarming . A. Gauci. Floriana. Malta. and C. Malta. In: State of the Environment Report for Malta. Malta Environment and Planning Authority. Fisheries and Agriculture. Gozo. Baldacchino. Amsterdam. A.htm. Stephen C.
. 76 . Malta. A. M. Role'. Borg and B. Vella. Role'. Final Activity Document. Tanti. M.. Environment Protection Department. UNEP/MAP/PAP (2001) Good Practices Guidelines for Integrated Coastal Area Management in the Mediterranean. M.a tool for sustainable use of coastal resources with particular reference to the northwest. A.Tanti. Shipman (2003) Integrated coastal area management in the island of Malta . Floriana. Borg and I. Malta. Borg and I. L. A. C. MAP CAMP The Malta Project. C. Malta. C. A. Activity 5: Soil Erosion/Desertification Control Management. Final integrated project document for MAP CAMP the Malta project.. Split. Role'. Environment Protection Department. Priority Actions Programme Regional Activity Centre. A. Tanti. Calleja (2002) Protection of Soil and rural landscapes in Northwest Malta. MEPA. Calleja (2001) Socio-economic pa�erns and strategies.
probably 1-2 hundred free-living and other species occur 1 species at least 15 species 69 1 ca. many more occur at least 10 species at least 7 species ca. 11 ca. wasps and ants) Diplopoda (millipedes) Chilopoda (centipedes) Amphibia (frogs) Reptilia (reptiles) Aves (birds) Mammalia (mammals) 1 species recorded at least 10 species ca. 13 resident c. 600 recorded. 15 1 9 ca. at least 200+ species occur 1 a few species recorded. 20 species recorded. 6 ca. 150 recorded. 150 ca. 590 ca. probably 500+ occur ca. 48 5 2 ca. 27 plant parasitic species. 130 11 2 indigenous species ca. 10 recorded ca. 49 1 freshwater species ca. water-fleas and relatives) Ostracoda (seed shrimps) Amphipoda (sandhoppers and beach-hoppers) Isopoda (woodlice) Decapoda (crabs) Apterygote orders Odonata (dragonflies & damselflies) Dictyoptera (mantises & cockroaches) Orthoptera (grasshoppers) Dermaptera (earwigs) Isoptera (termites) Coleoptera (beetles) Homoptera (aphids. 83 recorded.Annex I List of flora and fauna recorded from the Maltese Islands Algae Myxomycota (slime moulds) Large Fungi Lichenes (lichens) Bryophyta (mosses and relatives) Pteridophyta (ferns and relatives) Gymnospermae (conifers) Angiospermae (flowering plants) ca. 300 ca. 71 ca. many more occur 113 recorded. 9 recorded ca.. 1998). scale insects and relatives) Heteroptera (true bugs) Lepidoptera (bu�erflies and moths) Neuroptera (lacewings) Diptera (flies) Hymenoptera (bees. 150 ca. 14 ca. many more occur ca. Hydrozoa (hydras) Turbellaria (flatworms) Nematoda (roundworms) Nematomorpha (horsehair worms) Annelida (earthworms and leeches) Mollusca (snails and slugs) Scorpiones (scorpions) Pseudoscorpiones (false scorpions) Opiliones (harvestmen) Araneae (spiders) Palpigradi (microwhipscorpions) Acari (ticks and mites) Branchiopoda (fairy shrimps. 30 recorded ca. 200 recorded. 20 77 . lea�oppers. probably 500+ occur ca. 24 ca. probably 2000+ occur a few species recorded. 900 indigenous species List of fauna recorded from the Maltese Islands (reproduced from Schembri et al. more occur ca.
more occur 3 recorded. 5 recorded. Macroscopic algae (seaweeds) Microscopic algae Marine angiosperms (sea-grasses) Porifera (sponges) Hydrozoa (hydroids). dolphins and whales) 78 ca. more occur 19 species recorded. more occur ca. 14 recorded. more occur ca. 20 recorded. more occur 3 confirmed species 33 species recorded. many more occur 2 recorded. more probably occur 3 recorded. 230 recorded. more may occur 19 10 ca. 4 species recorded. more occur 2 species recorded. 3 recorded. more may occur 2. many more occur ca. 16 recorded. hermit crabs & crabs) Crinoidea (sea lilies) Asteroidea (starfish) Ophiuroidea (bri�le stars) Echinoidea (sea urchins) Holothuroidea (sea cucumbers) Chaetognatha (arrow worms) Hemichordata (hemichordates) Urochordata (tunicates) Cephalochordata (lancelets) Agnatha (jawless fishes) Chondrichthyes (cartilaginous fishes) Osteichthyes (bony fish) Reptilia (marine turtles) Mammalia (seals. cu�lefish and octopuses) Priapulida Sipuncula (peanut worms) Echiura (spoon worms) Polychaeta (ragworms and relatives) Oligochaeta (marine oligochaetes) Hirudinea (marine leeches) Tardigrada (water bears) Pycnogonida (sea spiders) Branchiopoda Ostracoda (marine seed shrimps) Copepoda (oar shrimps) Cirripedia (barnacles) Isopoda (sea slaters and fishlice) Amphipoda (beachhoppers) Mysidacea (mysid shrimps) Euphausiacea (krill) Stomatopoda (mantis shrimps) Decapoda (shrimps. 83 recorded. many more occur 6 occur but not studied 2. more occur occur but not studied occur but not studied occur but not studied occur but not studied ca. as the groups concerned have not been adequately studied. more occur ca. more occur 1 species recorded ca. more probably occur 3 recorded. 34 recorded. more probably occur may occur ca. more occur ca. more may occur ca. 220 recorded. 21 recorded. more occur ca. many more occur 2 species recorded. more occur ca. 160 recorded. more occur 4 recorded. more occur 20 recorded. 5 recorded. more occur ca. 600 recorded. more occur probably occur ca. 1998).List of marine flora and fauna recorded from the Maltese Islands (reproduced from Schembri et al. more occur occur but not studied 1 species recorded occur but not studied occur but not studied 1 species recorded. more occur 1 species recorded. 12 species recorded. In some cases the numbers given are only estimates. more may occur 3 1 seal and ca. 17 recorded. Scyphozoa (jellyfish) Anthozoa (sea-anemones and corals) Ctenophora (comb-jellies) Platyhelminthes (marine flatworms) Nemertina (ribbon worms) Nematoda (thread worms) Gastrotricha Rotifera (wheel animals) Kinorhyncha Bryozoa (moss animals) Brachiopoda (lamp shells) Phoronida Caudofoveata Solenogastres Polyplacophora (chitons) Scaphopoda (tusk shells) Gastropoda (marine snails and slugs) Bivalvia (marine bivalves) Cephalopoda (squid. many more occur 1 1 51. more probably occur ca. 54 recorded. 9 cetaceans . more may occur 234. 85 recorded. 20 species recorded. more occur occur not studied ca. more occur ca. more occur ca.
Annex II Coastal Zone Management (Structure Plan Policies CZM 1. Policy CZM 3 calls for public coastal access all along the coast. thus displacing informal recreational public space by development. Furthermore the lack of information on land ownership has hindered measures towards expropriation of coastal areas to bring them back into public ownership as directed in the policy. 79 . Public use of the coast is still an issue that needs to be addressed at a strategic level. whereby access has been interpreted as a pathway. Policy TOU 15 is also administrative as it calls for the formulation of a comprehensive coastal management plan. within the identified geographical space. CZM 1-3. Policies CZM 1 and 2 address the administrative measures to adopt coastal management rather than giving a strategic direction of how development can occur in coastal areas. The three distinct policies within the Structure Plan. As they stand. these policies do not assist the development control process at all.3. The absence of an identified geographical space directing where this policy applies has led to loopholes in development control. TOU 15) Coastal planning incorporates a holistic approach to address all the demands and impacts arising from development on coastal resources and uses. a�empt to introduce the concept of coastal management within the planning process.
there was really no need for Policy RCO 24 since these legislative documents are still in force. leaving a policy loophole for other types of coastal engineering works. Such areas are still present today and have been identified by the natural resource surveys. RCO 20. RCO These policies are site specific with Policy RCO 34 addressing minor islands and policies 36-38 directed towards the Dwejra/Qawra area in Gozo. The issue of coastal engineering is partially covered by Policies RCO 16 and RCO 23 by addressing beach replenishment. Once areas are scheduled and protected the next step would be to retain and if possible enhance their status. which deal with coastal erosion. RCO 19. RCO 37. Policy RCO 20 could have been more strategic if the areas of degraded habitat and landscape were identified. With the existence of the Soil Preservation Act and the Sand Preservation Act. Policy RCO 19 is an administrative policy that does not affect the development control or planning process in terms of spatial use. The strategic policies still count to date but require revisions to include additional measures for further protection particularly from land-based sources of pollution and the increasing quantities and diversity of sea-based uses. 2 Beaches: Policies: RCO 16. for example the issue of overnight camping and permanent structures are also covered in polices REC 9. A similar statement can be made for policies RCO 21 and RCO 22. RCO 17. RCO 21. Yet the issue of beach facilities is not addressed. RCO 11. The protection of Dwejra is still on the agenda as is the need to protect other important areas. These policies however address similar issues that are also found in other coastal areas. . RCO 23. REC 11. REC 12 and CZM 3. Policies RCO 10 and 11 have protected most of the coastal habitats and areas of scientific importance along the coast and proved effective for development control once these areas were protected. creation and coastal defences. There were no financial resources allocated for data collection and subsequently no classification system was adopted to categorise the local habitats in a similar scheme that was adopted for terrestrial habitats. RCO 18. There are other areas that require protection and such policies would adequately assist this process within the formulation of the Local Plans. RCO 24. 3 Specific Areas: Policies: RCO 34. therefore giving a geographical location to this policy would make it more effective to implement. as it afforded some protection to the candidate sites from development projects through the conditions made. 4 Marine Conservation Areas: Policies: MCO 1-13 No Marine Conservation Area has been designated to-date for two reasons. RCO 36. The protection of minor islands can be linked with measures on Marine Conservation and is still applicable in terms of development 80 control and planning purpose. RCO 22 Five policies addressing sandy beaches and in terms of development control have been very effective because they are very specific and allow suitable direction when processing development applications.Annex III Structure Plan policies affecting the coastal zone 1 General Conservation: Policies RCO 10. Policy MCO 1 proved to be the most useful with respect to development control.
27 1. of claims for storm damage No.3 11 65.200 19.000 95 10 50 3 50 55 25 50 80 600 20 5 500 15 95 3 800 50 50 65 7 2 1.500 1.000 400 25 10 15. of dives % of samples meeting acceptable levels of faecal coliforms (<1000mg/l) No.Annex IV Table 2 Indicators for coastal issues Note % of the total coastal area of the NW % of total agricultural land Number of farms Number of cars during peak Number of marine cra� during peak weekend Annual number of cases % of coastal length No.4 328 25 136 5 517 56 40 Indicator Scheduled/protected areas in NW Abandoned agricultural land Fish farms in the NW Cars travelling through the NW Marine vessels in the NW Enforcement actions by PA Marine conservation/protected areas Diving in the NW Bathing water quality Number of breaches in rubble walls Pollution in ground water Unemployed as a % of working population Full time farmers Tourist accommodation occupancy . of breaches Level of nitrate (mg/l) % of working population in NW % of total farmers Occupancy % during winter Maximum Minimum 80 25 5 3.000 700 60 20 40.winter Employment in tourism Full-time employees in NW % of total No.3 1. of annual claims TSE recycled water % of water consumed leaked water Cubic metres per hour level of bunkering operations % of total operations in Malta Population growth in the NW Annual rate of growth population density in NW Population per sq km Beach closure Number of days during summer Tourist resident ratio -summer Daily tourists as a % of residents Gastroenteritis outbreaks in No.000 85 5 25 1 40 35 15 25 50 300 5 2 300 2 70 1 200 15 35 2000 66 15 5 4. of total outbreaks in a year NW Quality of drinking water Level of chloride (mg/l) Quality of drinking water Level of nitrate (mg/l) Quality of bathing water No.000 98.6 1. of points obtained on faecal coliform readings 81 .8 44 26 14 72 4.000 68 0 55.
listed a % of sq m buildings submi�ed Abandoned % of total agricultural agricultural land land Fish farms in number of the NW farms Bunkering number of operations in bunkering NW operations Hardstone size of quarries quarries by surface area (000 sq m) Production % of national from hardstone production quarries Cars travelling number of cars through the during peak NW Marine vessels number of in the NW marine cra� during peak weekend Enforcement annual number actions by PA of cases Reports to ALE Annual number (administrative of ALE reports law enforcement branch of police department) Unemployed as % of working a % of working population in population NW Applications granted as granted a % of sq m industrial submi�ed 70 75 60 90 80 95 90 25 5 NA 800 80 3.000 60 60 60 25 25 104 75 67 34 52 67 68 109 3 65 1 30 0 0 1.other granted as a % of sq m submi�ed Applications granted as granted a % of sq m commercial submi�ed Applications granted as granted .000 400 1990 1995 1996 1997 1 23 34 49 1998 63 64 2 54 1999 2000 7 0 0 12 3 4 12 4 24 0 13 4 14 4 66 15 5 775 70 1630 800 4109 1.000 700 30 40 35 80 65 75 70 7 2 NA 400 50 1.8 82 .Indicator Note Maximum Minimum SUSTAINABLE COASTAL MANAGEMENT Applications granted .tou/ a % of sq m rec submi�ed Applications granted as granted a % of sq m domestic submi�ed Scheduled/ % of the total protected areas coastal area of in NW the NW Applications granted as granted a % of sq m agriculture submi�ed Applications granted as granted .
Indicator Note Maximum Minimum 1990 SUSTAINABLE COASTAL MANAGEMENT Applications granted as 95 80 granted a % of sq m services submi�ed Full time % of total 50 40 farmers farmers Fish catch % of total catch 30 15 Fish farm yearly NA NA production production Tourist occupancy % 55 35 accommodation during winter occupancy .000 0 0 83 .shoulder Tourist occupancy % 95 80 accommodation during summer occupancy .4 328 36 17 48 92 122 27 51 95 129 0 28 52 97 129 0 25 51 95 136 0 55.000 15.summer Employment in fulltime 35 30 tourism employees in NW % of total Population annual rate of 5 2 growth in the growth NW population population per 500 300 density in NW sq km Full time % of total 15 5 fishermen fishermen Beach closure number of days 2 15 during summer Tourist resident daily tourists as 50 45 ratio .000 NW 1995 1996 1997 100 1998 77 1999 2000 44 39 38 26 65 63 48 87 84 67 14 19 310 1.3 320 1.winter a % of residents Tourist resident daily tourists as 70 55 ratio .shoulder a % of residents Tourist resident daily tourists as 95 70 ratio -summer a % of residents Marine % of coastal 20 10 conservation/ length protected areas Diving in the No.6 316 1.winter Tourist occupancy % 75 55 accommodation during shoulder occupancy . of dives 40.3 324 1.
7 71.C Rodent Control No. of claims for compensation No of breaches in rubble walls Length of breaches in rubble walls Land tenure No. of warnings given annual number of claims No.4 80. of total outbreaks in a year No.7 90 50 Indicator Note Maximum Minimum 1990 SOIL EROSION & DESERTIFICATION CONTROL Official flood warnings No.6 97.6 81. of total cases in a year No of takes from baits places Bathing water % of samples quality meeting acceptable levels of faecal coliforms (< 1000 mg/l) Risk Factor % of grading of inspections hotels falling within Grade A .bait placed No. of breaches Length in metres % of agricultural land owned and farmed by owner 10 50 10 100 50 4 25 5 50 25 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 217 50 72 72 11 69.8 15 84 .7 98.Indicator Note TOURISM & HEALTH Gastroenteritis Outbreaks in NW Gastroenteritis cases in NW Rodent control .3 90 70 76 72 68 90 70 57 5 210 100 1 71 80 9 6 9 7 14 1 75.6 65.5 98.C Risk Factor % of grading of inspections catering falling within establishments Grade A .4 98. of – residents' complaints complaints from residents Beach quality In % points as compared to a�ained Blue Flag Beach quality % of total as compared to beach sample Health criteria observations falling within Grade A Media interest % of positive/ in tourism negative media health coverage Maximum Minimum 1990 3 9 3 95 1 5 2 85 1995 1996 1997 2 8 1998 1 6 1999 6 5 2000 5 7 98.
4 51.5 25 19.800 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 517 >99 72.3 Number 50 of points obtained on faecal coliform readings Complaints by % of visitors 10 visitors 40 45 50 45 50 40 5 Note: Some data is not available or has not been collected.81 75 2. 85 .516 4.6 35.11 56 1.1 80 20 3.59 2.5 39. of vessels Maximum Minimum 1990 10 20 70 0 5 30 35 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 20 17.1 0.200 Indicator Note Marine Conservation Areas phc in effluent (bunkering) Level of bunkering operations Marine vessels in MCA Quality of bathing water ppm % of total operations in Malta no.61 2.5 15 300 457 >99 77.327 1.9 67.25 50 600 200 85 90 25 0.4 0.27 0.105 1.12 50 10 0.63 54 2.Indicator Note Maximum Minimum 1990 INTEGRATED WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT Quality of drinking water Use index Water consumption Pollution in groundwater water affordability TSE recycled water Quantity of produced water piezometric levels Quality of drinking water Leaked water chloride level (mg/l) % of total users litres per capita per day Nitrate levels (mg/l) Lm/m3 % of water consumed million m3/ year metres nitrate level (mg/l) m3/hour 800 100 150 50 1.9 65.2 70.15 3.421 1995 771 >99 88.
and where possible and practical. non-governmental organisations and the general public. 2. inclusive and transparent manner. The coast should be formally and legally recognised as an outstanding national and global heritage. are treated with dignity. recognising the interrelationships between coastal users and ecosystems and between the land and sea. Efforts should be made to ensure that all Maltese will accept that the coastal zone is to be enjoyed in a spirit of community and shared responsibility. 3. Coastal management shall be carried out in a socially inclusive manner. 86 . 4. Risk-minimisation and precautionary principle. all kinds of seas. in a way that current and future generations will benefit. The diversity. Social equity. 6. Coastal management efforts should adopt a risk-minimisation and a precautionary approach under conditions of scientific and economic uncertainty. Holism. should be sought in the interests of all Maltese. particularly for the coast. Recognising that for Maltese citizens. Coastal management is a shared responsibility. The coast should be treated as an indivisible system. the following declaration is endorsed as the national vision for the sustainable use and management of Malta's coastal areas: Coastal Zone Declaration Reaffirming our commitment made in RIO . Principles for an Integrated Coastal Area Management Plan To achieve the ideal of a truly sustainable coastal development. and that accessibility and use need to be managed in order to ensure a sustainable utilisation of the many material and living resources to be found therein. Coastal management efforts should be co-ordinated and integrated. and ecological integrity. All people should be responsible for the consequences of their actions. health and productivity of coastal ecosystems should be maintained and enhanced. having sought the views and opinions of all parties. Recognising also that the coastal zone is an invaluable natural resource which is under great pressure resulting from demographic and lifestyle pressures. enhanced. including enclosed and semi-enclosed seas and coastal areas. National heritage. including future generations. national and local obligations are honoured. Efforts to ensure that Maltese citizens enjoy the coast in a spirit of community and shared responsibility will be initiated. We support the following set of principles which should guide our actions and set the goals and objectives for our Coastal Policy. We therefor commit ourselves to the management of our coast in a way that benefits present and future generations. and that international. and protection. cultural and psychological importance. Inclusivity. the coastal zone is the main and last remaining "open space" and that it has considerable sociological. the following principles for integrated coastal management are proposed: 1. its accessibility for recreational and leisure activities thus needs to be ensured and conserved. social development. 5. Co-ordination and integration. including stakeholder. and conducted in an open. fairness and justice. 8. Duty of care. and of a sense of vision of how we wish the coast to meet the needs of current and future generations.Annex V Coastal declaration for Malta On the bases of the general deliberations resulting from the CAMP Malta project. in a spirit of stewardship and caring. Economic development. 9. We emphasise the need to agree upon a common understanding of the "coastal zone" in functional terms. Guidance for the proper management of the Maltese coast shall be provided to allow the correct and appropriate management of coastal areas. and in Chapter 17 of Agenda 21 entitled 'Protection of the Oceans. rational use and development of their living resources'. and thus they need to take responsibility for the health and sustainability of the environment. as well as the need for broad endorsement and acceptance of ICZM as a proactive tool to facilitate appropriate and sustainable development of coastal areas and resources. and have the duty to act with care to avoid damage to others and to the coastal environment. A balance between material prosperity. Coastal management efforts should ensure that all people. Ecological integrity. spiritual and cultural fulfilment. 7. Economic development opportunities in the coastal zone should be exploited in a sustainable manner to meet human needs and to promote human well-being.
87 .
2001. Athens. UNEP/MAP/PAP. MAP-PAP/RAC. II (2 Vols. UNEP/MAP/PAP. Vol.org 88 This document describes the present status of coastal management in Malta and how coastal issues and conflicts are being addressed. UNDP).70 Fax: (385) (21) 34. 138. IOC.90 E-mail: pap@gradst. UNEP/MAP. Croatia. Split. its functions and working methodology.Box 576 HR-21000 Split Croatia Tel: (385) (21) 34. Finally. Council of Europe).196-7 E-mail: unepmedu@unepmap. IMO.73. policy responses and practices related to coastal management. IAEA. Priority Actions Programme. Ivana 11 P. PAP/ RAC (MAP/UNEP). UNEP/MAP/PAP.53. UNEP/MAP.04. Formulation and Implementation of CAMP Projects: Operational Manual. UNEP Regional Seas Reports and Studies No. MAP CAMP Project "Malta": Final Integrated Project Document and Selected Thematic Documents. three coastal management projects are presented in detail: MAP CAMP for Malta.hr h�p://www. WHO. 1999.With Special Reference to the Mediterranean Basin.). and Regional project for the development of marine and coastal protected areas in the Mediterranean region (MedMPA). as well as issues related to ICAM and its future in Malta. 2003. . WTO. other international organisations (European Union. UNESCO. White Paper: Coastal Zone Management in the Mediterranean. Priority Actions Programme. 1995. FAO. PAP/RAC co-operates with a large number of organisations in the UN system (UNEP.Box 18019 48.04. Vassileos Konstantinou Avenue 116 10 Athens Greece Tel: (30) (210) 72. Vol. 2001. and national and local authorities in the Mediterranean region.O. MAP Technical Report Series No. Split. 1999. and to the strengthening of national and local capacities for integrated coastal area management. Some examples of past experiences with ICAM are also presented. financial institutions (World Bank.100 Fax: (30) (210) 72. European Investment Bank). The Priority Actions Programme Regional Activity Centre (PAP/RAC) is part of the Mediterranean Action Plan (MAP) of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Split. as well as an overview of the current legislative structures which concern coastal issues within the Maltese islands. economic activities that take place in the coastal areas and their impacts. Guidelines for Integrated Management of Coastal and Marine Areas . PAP/RAC is an action-oriented organisation aimed at carrying out practical activities that are expected to yield immediate results contributing to the protection and enhancement of the Mediterranean environment. UNEP/MAP. Project of Ghajn Tuffieha/Ramla l-Hamra. 161.unepmap. a special a�ention is given to legal and institutional provisions. Conceptual Framework and Planning Guidelines for Integrated Coastal Area and River Basin Management. 138.org Regional Activity Centre for the Priority Actions Programme Kraj Sv. UNEP/MAP. United Nations Environment Programme Co-ordinating Unit for the Mediterranean Action Plan P. In this. their natural and cultural resources and social features. UNEP/MAP. Split. Priority Actions Programme.). namely to the launching of a Coastal Resources Advisory Board (CRAB). Athens.Selected MAP and PAP/RAC Publications on ICAM UNEP. MAP Technical Report Series No. I (2 Vols. Athens – Split. MAP CAMP Project "Malta": Final Integrated Project Document and Selected Thematic Documents.gr h�p://www.O. Good Practices Guidelines for Integrated Coastal Area Management in the Mediterranean. The document consists of nine parts which present the characteristics of the Maltese coastal areas.pap-thecoastcentre. 2003.
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