HSBC Malta Foundation contributes €105,000 to Delimara nature park

HSBC Malta Foundation has contributed €105,000 towards the nature park and sustainable development centre at Xrobb l-Għaġin in Delimara over the past three years.

The figure was revealed by HSBC’s environment adviser and deputy head of Group Corporate Sustainability, Francis Sullivan, during a recent visit to the project.

Besides the foundation planting more than 25,000 trees around Malta, perhaps the bank’s most significant contribution has been its promotion of the concept of sustainability, Mr Sullivan said.

The park is designed to rely on energy generated by renewable sources while irrigation is carried out through a biological treatment facility that treats drainage effluent water into second class water.

Accompanied by Resources and Rural Affairs Minister George Pullicino, Mr Sullivan was shown around the project by Vincent Attard, the president of Nature Trust (Malta).

Nature Trust was entrusted with the management of the afforestation project while the ministry maintains responsibility for the planting and upkeep of the trees.

While thanking HSBC for their support, Mr Pullicino said: “The Xrobb l-Għaġin project will serve the purpose of illustrating the collective efforts towards reducing emissions.

“The use of renewable energy, energy efficiency in buildings, waste water treatment for reuse and environmental education are all factors contributing towards a holistic approach in reaching our targets and having better air quality.

“The park is also a direct investment in the tourist potential of the south, and in particular the Marsaxlokk area,” Mr Pullicino said.

The Xrobb l-Għaġin park forms part of a national environmental plan transforming derelict areas into useable open spaces.

The project also houses a hostel that can accommodate up to 30 people.