A local sailor has uncovered a significant environmental threat in the Maltese seas: ghost nets, which are lost or abandoned fishing gear drifting through the waters. In collaboration with Zibel Malta, this effort aims to protect and preserve the delicate marine ecosystems around Malta.

Ghost nets, often composed of durable synthetic materials, pose severe risks to marine life, entangling sea creatures, damaging coral reefs, and disrupting fragile ecosystems. These discarded nets can linger in the ocean for decades, contributing to a growing global crisis.

Organisations such as the Global Ghost Gear Initiative (GGGI) and Ghost Diving are spearheading efforts to tackle this issue on a broader scale. Their work involves retrieving hazardous nets, preventing further losses, and recycling materials to minimise their environmental impact.

Zibel Malta proudly supports these initiatives through the dedicated efforts of our volunteer divers, whose work is crucial in mitigating the impact of ghost nets and enhancing the health of our seas.

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The Breeds of Origin Conservancy has formally requested the recognition of the indigenous Maltese goat as a critically endangered ‘Traditional Population’ and a ‘Local Breed at Risk.’ In a letter addressed to the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, and Animal Rights, Dr. Anton Refalo, the organization highlighted the breed’s historic and cultural significance, noting that it has not been properly recognized in Malta.

Although the Maltese goat was officially recorded and standardized in Italy as the Capra Maltese, local efforts have lagged. Darryl Grech, founder of the Breeds of Origin Conservancy and President of the Maltese Cooperative for Goats and Sheep (Koperattiva Maltija tal-Mogħoż u n-Nagħaġ), emphasized that the time has come to nationally recognize and safeguard this breed, which has been documented since the early 19th century.

To support their request, the organizations submitted a comprehensive document tracing the history of the Maltese goat, underscoring its importance and the need for urgent conservation measures.

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/383154153_AN_OVERVIEW_OF_THE_INDIGENOUS_GOAT_OF_THE_MALTESE_ISLANDS_THROUGH_VARIOUS_LITERATURE_-_To_officially_recognise_the_Indigenous_Goat_of_the_Maltese_islands_as_a_critically_endangered_Traditional_Populat?channel=doi&linkId=66becd12145f4d35535d5f8d&showFulltext=true

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The first half of 2024 has marked a significant milestone in Malta’s ongoing efforts to preserve and promote its rich cultural heritage.

Recent statistics reveal a remarkable increase in the number of paying visitors to heritage sites administered by Heritage Malta, underscoring the nation’s resilience and the growing international recognition of its unique patrimonial treasures.

A total of 816,983 paying visitors explored one of Malta’s heritage sites in the first six months of 2024. This impressive figure not only surpasses last year’s numbers but also exceeds the record set in 2019, a benchmark year for cultural tourism before the COVID-19 pandemic.

The 2024 figures represent a notable 5% increase over 2019, with 780,351 visitors, demonstrating a strong recovery and growth in Malta’s cultural sector.

The surge in visitor numbers is not just a numerical achievement; it symbolizes the resilience of Malta’s cultural sector and its ability to thrive in the face of challenges.

One of the standout successes of this period is Fort St. Elmo, which saw an astonishing 48.55% increase in visitors compared to 2019, with 75,586 people exploring this historic military site.

The Inquisitor’s Palace in Birgu also reported a significant 21.68% rise in visitors, reflecting the ongoing appeal of Malta’s unique role in the history of the Inquisition and the positive impact of recent restoration efforts.

This growth is a testament to the tireless efforts of Heritage Malta, whose initiatives have successfully attracted more visitors to the island’s historical and cultural landmarks.

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