Protecting our islands

The strategic goals set out in the draft National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) for Malta are translated into the following action-based and outcome-oriented measures, which are grouped into 18 thematic areas, and must be achieved by 2020.

Theme 3: Ecological Network of Protected Areas (EN 1-4)

EN1: Efforts are continued to ensure that Malta’s National Ecological Network constitutes a comprehensive and ecologically representative national system of protected areas, with improved sufficiency in affording protection to Maltese habitats and species.

EN2: Conservation objectives and management plans are defined implemented in a timely manner for Natura 2000 sites, which are also supported by sectoral policies and planning instruments that allow a fully integrated ecosystem approach.

EN3: The capacity of linear features in the landscape (such as dry stone walls, watercourses, field margins, vegetated road verges) to serve as ecological corridors between fragmented areas and protected areas and for maintaining their vital role as important microhabitats for wild species and their dispersal, is maintained, more so in the face of climate change.

EN4: Components for building a green infrastructure are strengthened to improve the ecological coherence of Natura 2000, through integration into the broader landscape, and curb habitat fragmentation, improve adaptation to climate change and aid in integrated flood management.

Mepa published the draft National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) for Malta on 28th February 2012.

The NBSAP aims to set Malta on the right track to meet its own biodiversity and other environmental objectives, as well as its international commitments, by 2020. To view the document visit www.mepa.org.mt/biodiversity-nbsap.