‘Consumers Ultimately Responsible To Dispose Waste Properly’ – MRU

'Consumers Ultimately Responsible To Dispose Waste Properly' - MRU
Jan 20 2025 Share

The Malta Ranger Unit took to social media to issue a statement after they received an overwhelming amount of reports from worried members of the public in regards to the recent sale of street food in Dingli, which has led to severe littering and degradation of the site.

‘Our Unit raised concerns already last week with the ERA and this morning, after seeing the site littered we called their Enforcement Team.’

The unit highlighted how everyone who carries out commercial activity in a Natura2000 site is obliged to obtain permits from ERA.

‘The reason for this, is for the site to be protected from degradation and saturation of environmental crimes (littering, offroading, excessive trampling etc). We have a concern that such a permit hasn’t been obtained and have asked ERA to confirm.’

‘ Although we acknowledge that the consumers are ultimately responsible to dispose of their waste properly, without the activity being monitored by the Authorities, it is evident that its saturation is causing an unavoidable issue of littering.’

Rangers reportedly cleaned the whole area after they found a large amount of litter connected with the commercial activity.

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Over 849,000 Cruise Passengers In Malta In 2024

Over 849,000 Cruise Passengers In Malta In 2024
Jan 20 2025 Share

In the fourth quarter of 2024, Malta welcomed a total of 176,812 cruise passengers, a 4.6% increase compared to the same period last year.

The 92 cruise liner calls during this quarter marked an increase of 10 over the previous year. The majority of passengers were transit passengers, totalling 166,564, which accounted for 94.2% of the total traffic.

On average, each vessel carried 1,922 passengers, which is 140 fewer than in the previous year.

Passengers from EU Member States represented 36.2% of the total, with Italy as the largest market, contributing 10.2% of passengers, followed by Germany at 8.8%.

Non-EU passengers totalled 112,806, with the United Kingdom and the United States being the largest contributors, at 18.1% and 44.8% of the total, respectively.

Regarding demographics, female passengers made up 54.1% of the total, and the largest group of passengers were aged between 60-79 years, comprising 46.2% of the total.

Passengers aged 40-59 years followed, representing 27.4%.

For the full year of 2024, Malta saw 849,088 cruise passengers, with 41.5% coming from EU countries.

Of these passengers, 53.7% were female, and the majority (37.3%) were aged between 60-79 years. The total number of cruise liner calls during the year was 363, with an average of 2,339 passengers per vessel.

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Photo Source: NSO

5 Reasons Why VirtualMalta.com is Your Gateway to Malta’s Rich Heritage

5 Reasons Why VirtualMalta.com is Your Gateway to Malta’s Rich Heritage
Jan 20 2025 Share

VirtualMalta.com is redefining how Malta’s cultural and religious heritage is experienced, blending state-of-the-art technology with compelling storytelling. Here are five reasons why this innovative platform, a project initiated by the Eastern Regional Council (formerly Reġjun Ċentru), is a must-visit for history lovers, students, and travellers alike:

1. Immersive Virtual Tours of Malta’s Historic Churches

VirtualMalta.com began by bringing Malta’s parish churches to life, showcasing their intricate artistry and centuries-old history.

Using advanced VR technology, each detail of these sacred spaces has been meticulously captured, offering visitors a fully immersive experience like no other. From awe-inspiring domes to stunning frescoes, it’s like stepping back in time from wherever you are.

2. Accessibility for Everyone, Everywhere

Whether you’re using a VR headset, tablet, computer, or smartphone, VirtualMalta.com is designed for all devices.

This accessibility ensures everyone can enjoy Malta’s cultural treasures—be it students, tourists, or local visitors—making it easy to explore history from the comfort of your own home or on the go.

3. Perfect for Tourism and Education

VirtualMalta.com doubles as a powerful tool for both tourism and education.

International travellers can preview Malta’s beauty before their trip, while students can dive into interactive lessons that bring history to life. It’s an inspiring way to connect with Malta’s unique culture, fostering a deeper understanding of its heritage.

4. Expanding Beyond Churches to Showcase All of Malta

What started with parish churches has now grown to include other cultural and historic sites across the Maltese Islands, thanks to support from the Malta Tourism Authority.

From ancient streets to iconic landmarks, VirtualMalta.com now offers a broader glimpse into the artistry and history that define Malta’s identity.

5. A Vision for the Future

VirtualMalta.com isn’t stopping here. Plans to expand into schools and integrate the platform into cultural events promise even greater reach. This ensures Malta’s heritage is preserved and shared globally, engaging future generations and keeping its rich history alive.

VirtualMalta.com combines technology and tradition to revolutionize how we experience heritage.

Whether you’re a traveler, a history enthusiast, or a student, this platform offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to explore Malta’s cultural treasures like never before. Visit VirtualMalta.com today and embark on an unforgettable journey!

#MaltaDaily

Two Hedgehogs Released Back Into The Wild

Two Hedgehogs Released Back Into The Wild
Jan 20 2025 Share

Wildlife Rescue Team Malta released 2 adorable hedgehogs back into local nature.

Luca, a light coloured hedgehog, was found as an 82g hoglet and now weighing just over 400g. Having been weaned onto natural food, Luca could return to exploring the wild.

Meanwhile, Zombie was found with severe burns on all 4 of his paws. He had to endure a long recovery, lost a couple of toes in the process, but has ultimately fully recovered and could go back to his adventures.

‘All the animals we rescue are protected species and it is illegal in Malta to keep them as pets.’

‘If you spot any of the wild animals that we rescue injured or in danger, please call the Wildlife Rescue Team on 99999505.’

#MaltaDaily