The 2008 Environment Report (8)

Key policy question: What is the status of Malta's species and habitats of European community importance?

Some Maltese habitats and the species inhabiting them are important both nationally and at a European level. Charts 1 and 2 indicate the status of habitats and species listed in the Habitats Directive and found in Malta. The status of 29 per cent of Maltese habitats and 36 per cent of Maltese species listed in the Habitats Directive is still unknown, and a significant amount of these relate to the marine environment.

In addition, 64 per cent of habitats and 44 per cent of species have a bad or inadequate conservation status. Stringent measures are required for these to attain favourable status, while further surveys are needed to assess the status of habitats and species with unknown status.

Policy responses in this area include Mepa's designation of protected areas, together with management of activities in such areas; permitting procedures; conservation initiatives focused on particular species; awareness-raising; and the preparation of a national biodiversity strategy and action plan.

The Environment Report seeks to increase awareness and understanding of key environmental issues and trends, to provide a sound evidence base for policy and decision-making, and to facilitate the measurement of environmental performance and progress towards sustainability.

For more information visit www.mepa.org.mt/ter.