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 12: Enforcement (Code EF1-4)
EF1: Resource constraints in the enforcement sector are addressed resulting in more timely and effective interception and deterrence of illegalities by way of setting up a centralised call centre on environmental contraventions and by setting up a task force assigned with the role of strengthening consolidation between environmental enforcement agencies.
EF2: The polluter pays principle and principles of liability and redress are applied wherever environmental damage has resulted from an occupational or other activity of an operator.
EF3: A National Enforcement Directorate is set up and effectively deals with curbing illegalities in Out of Development Zone (ODZ) areas.
EF4: Environmental illegalities such as, but not limited to, the illegal alteration of water flows that is detrimental to freshwater dependent biodiversity, illegal land conversion, as well as the illegal capture and killing of species, are addressed through strengthened enforcement and corrective action.
MEPA published the draft National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) for Malta on February 28. 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.