This Mediterranean Jellyfish Swims Against The Current

Jun 13 2025

In a video shared to social media, marine biologist Alan Deidun shared footage sent to him of one of the few jellyfish in the Mediterranean which actively swims against currents.

Known as the sea lung or sea barrel (scientific name Rhizostoma pulmo), this species is excluded from particularly warm waters and needs extensive sandy bottom patches.

It only inflicts a mild sting despite its large size. It is also quite infrequent within Maltese waters, with this particular rule-breaker filmed off the southern shores of Sicily.

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Almost 5,000 Enforcement Cases Opened By ERA In 2024

Jun 13 2025

The Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) processed over 20,000 environmental authorisations in 2024, while finalising an additional 15,000 applications submitted in previous years.

According to its 2024 annual report, discussed in Parliament, ERA strengthened its permitting regime following the transfer of resources-related responsibilities from the Malta Resources Authority.

The Environmental Permitting Unit now also manages groundwater registrations and quarry licences. New regulations introduced this year aim to clarify and streamline procedures, with some permits now requiring public consultation.

ERA’s compliance and enforcement teams handled more than 4,880 cases in 2024, closing 4,238 of them.

These included matters involving waste management, illegal dumping, marine pollution and biodiversity protection.

A total of 1,301 administrative fines were issued. Targeted campaigns focused on littering and waste separation, with warnings issued to raise awareness before tougher measures are introduced.

The national waste strategy achieved a 23% reduction in mixed waste through mandatory separation measures.

ERA also designated new Special Areas of Conservation, including Xrobb l-Għaġin and Il-Ħondoq ir-Rummien, moving Malta closer to its goal of 30% land protection under EU biodiversity targets.

ERA Chairman Vincent Cassar highlighted the regeneration of Spencer Garden in Marsa as a key milestone in sustainable urban development, integrating renewable energy, water systems, and over 6,000 plants.

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New Public Space In Siġġiewi In Memory Of Mirabelle Falzon

Jun 12 2025

A new 2,570-square-metre public space has been officially opened in Siġġiewi to honour the memory of Mirabelle Falzon, a young woman from the locality who tragically passed away one year ago. Mirabelle had worked with INDIS Malta, the organisation that led the project in collaboration with the Siġġiewi Local Council and the National Development and Social Fund (NDSF).

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Minister for the Economy, Enterprise and Strategic Projects Silvio Schembri, who highlighted the project as part of the government’s wider commitment to greener, more liveable communities. He explained that this initiative fits within the fourth pillar of Malta’s Vision 2050, which aims to create more accessible public spaces for families while safeguarding the natural environment and agricultural land.

The new space includes a 30-metre zipline, CCTV-monitored facilities, and environmentally friendly features such as solar-powered lighting and a charging point for electric vehicles. Eighty trees were planted on site and are maintained through an automated irrigation system connected to a dedicated reservoir.

The project, which cost €850,000, was funded through Malta’s citizenship-by-investment programme. It revitalises a previously neglected plot of land and now stands as a space for rest, recreation, and reflection, while preserving Mirabelle’s memory.

Jean Pierre Attard, CEO of INDIS Malta, said the project shows how public entities can improve community life through thoughtful design and environmental care. Raymond Ellul, CEO of the NDSF, added that such initiatives leave a long-lasting legacy for future generations.

Mirabelle’s parents expressed deep gratitude to all involved. They said the park allows their daughter’s name to be remembered with love.

Mayor Julian Borg noted the transformation of an area once misused into a clean, safe, and inclusive open space for everyone to enjoy.

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Helpline Set Up For Residents Affected By Paceville Collapse

Jun 12 2025

Following the collapse of Tania Flats in Paceville, St Julian’s, the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) has confirmed that all evacuated residents are being given alternative accommodation and full support.

Thanks to quick action by architects, authorities, and one alert resident, 32 people were safely evacuated before the building collapsed. The BCA and the Occupational Health and Safety Authority (OHSA) had already inspected the site and issued a stop notice on 10 June after identifying serious structural problems.

With help from the police, residents were removed from the building as a safety measure. Excel Trading Ltd, developers of a nearby site, said their work had been completed weeks earlier and maintain the collapse was not caused by their project.

An investigation is ongoing. The Kamra tal-Periti praised those whose quick action saved lives and is also looking into any possible professional misconduct.

📞 Emergency Helpline for those affected: 9909 7867: The BCA encourages anyone who was impacted to call for technical, legal, or emotional support.

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