Malta In Deal With Carnival Corporation To Reduce Grand Harbour Pollution

Mar 18 2025

The Maltese government has signed the first Shore Power Agreement in the Mediterranean cruise region with Carnival UK & P&O Cruises, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable maritime practices. Speaking at Villa Bighi in Kalkara, Prime Minister Robert Abela highlighted the initiative’s role in reducing emissions and improving air quality in the Grand Harbour.

The Shore-to-Ship project will allow cruise liners to connect to the grid while docked, cutting reliance on fuel-based power. Transport Malta’s agreement with Carnival UK ensures the company’s ships will utilise shore power, benefiting both residents and visitors. The initiative aligns with EU regulations but also positions Malta as a leader in green innovation. Cruise tourism significantly contributes to Malta’s economy, generating €88 million annually, with €40 million directly from passenger spending.

Minister for Transport Chris Bonett described the project as transformative, reducing pollution and placing Malta ahead of the EU’s 2030 deadline. Minister for the Environment Miriam Dalli also attended the signing.

Paul Ludlow, President of Carnival UK & P&O Cruises, emphasised their commitment to sustainable travel and local partnerships. The European Onshore Power Supply Association (EOPSA) praised Malta’s proactive stance on decarbonisation.

P&O Cruises’ ships, including Azura, are set to utilise Malta’s shore power system, marking a significant step towards a greener maritime industry.

#MaltaDaily

€250,000 Worth Of Drugs Confiscated In 2 Arrests

Mar 18 2025

Two separate investigations in relation to drug importation led to the arrest of two men and the confiscation of €250,000 worth of drugs.

The first case saw a 34 year old Malaysian man who was arrested upon his arrival at the Malta International Airport.

The arrest took place during routine inspections when the man, who arrived in Malta from Larnaka, seemed to be acting strange.

On searches on his luggage, a number of packets were found which contained around 20 kilograms of drugs suspected to be cannabis.

In another investigation, a 27 year old English man was arrested when a suspicious packet arrived by post and was addressed to the person. The packet contained 2 kilograms of drugs also suspected to be cannabis.

The men are expected to be taken to court today at around 2pm.

#MaltaDaily

Wildlife Rescue Team Malta Rescues Two Injured Turtles

Mar 18 2025

On 16th March Wildlife rescue Team Malta posted to Facebook a video of Felic and Chrissy the rescued turtles.

In their post they stated, the first call came at 10:45am for a turtle in distress at Little Armier.

Our volunteers immediately went into action to go collect and bring it in at our rehab centre.

The first turtle rescued was Felic, When encountered the turtle had fishing line 4.95m long coming out of its mouth, a looped fishing line coming out of its cloaca, heavy algal overgrowth on carapace and front flipper, and numerous fresh wounds on its carapace (probably from bumping into rocks).

After settling Felic into the rehabilitation centre, around 1:30pm, a second distress call for a turtle came in from the beach near Ramla Bay Resort.

A second set of volunteers responded and rescued Chrissy, who also had fishing line of over 4m coming from its mouth. Wildlife rescue Team Malta added, no other injuries were visible, Chrissy appeared lethargic and is currently being monitored.

Both turtles will be assessed by a vet to check for the presence of fishing hooks and to determine the necessary treatment.

#MaltaDaily

A Windy Week Ahead After A Sunny St Patrick’s Day

Mar 18 2025

According to weather reports, the week is set to get particularly windy after a full sunny day perfect for St Patrick’s celebrations.

According to the Meteorological Office, today and tomorrow, which happens to be a public holiday and the feast of St Joseph, are set to be quite windy.

After a few more sunny days, the weekend is expected to pick up the wind force again, with temperatures varying between 17 and 20 degrees Celsius.

Do you have any plans for the week?

#MaltaDaily