Over 400 indigenous shrubs and trees are being planted at the I-Land Observatory and Interpretation Centre in Kunċizzjoni, limits of Mġarr, as part of the Simbiotic project.

Co-financed by the European Union Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and national funds the project seeks to rehabilitate ecologically degraded spaces in Malta.

Louis Cassar, director of the Institute of Earth Systems, said indigenous species of trees were selected to rehabilitate and restore degraded biotypes and create a thermo-Mediterranean scrub assemblage.

Care will not only be taken to ensure that indigenous species are used, but that these are planted in an ecological context

“Care will not only be taken to ensure that indigenous species are used, but that these are planted in an ecological context,” he added

The centre is a joint project between the University’s Institute of Earth Systems, the HSBC Malta Foundation and Mġarr local council.

Once up and running, the centre will cater for capacity development in integrated natural and cultural heritage management in the area, offering a space for nature conservation and ecological restoration and an open recreational area.

“As Malta’s first centre for integrated natural and cultural heritage management, the I-Land Observatory and Interpretation Centre will offer an environmental management hub with outreach facilities and educational activities with the aim of promoting environmental awareness, and greater appreciation for Malta’s natural and cultural heritage,” Dr Cassar said.