The option of reclaiming the coast to cater for Malta’s economic development would sacrifice Malta’s water quality and cause irreparable damage, according to marine biologist Alan Deidun.

“Malta has a long history of land reclamation – but in harbour areas which already have poor water quality. The open coast is a different matter altogether – the resulting debris plumes will spread along the coast and kill the posidonia meadows.

“Posidonia is a keystone species – it oxygenates the water and acts as a breeding ground. If you remove it, other species will follow suit. A number of places are prime diving spots.”

Dr Deidun was presenting his point of view during a debate organised by Sustainable Built Environment Malta (SBE) entitled ‘Land reclamation: the future?’

The economic development of Malta requires the expansion of port areas and the development of tourist facilities on the islands, according to SBE.

Architect Joe Bugeja says the largest land reclamation project in Malta is Terminal 2 within the Freeport, which was completely reclaimed. The project enjoyed an environmental impact assessment which addressed dredging, the wave climate, noise and visual pollution.

“The project, including oil tanking, generates €117 million annually and engages 2,000 people,” Mr Bugeja said. “I believe that ports require this kind of vision [...] Work does not penetrate the island but bounces off.

“We need to be visionary in the way we tackle our projects because we have to service the largest vessels in the industry.

“Land reclamation is onerous but it is a vital link in our economy. Malta should have more of this type of land reclamation.”

Dr Deidun questioned the need for land reclamation in Malta.

“How many more residential areas, ports and touristic facilities does Malta need?”

Only 30 per cent of Malta’s territorial waters is less than 50 metres deep – and large chunks of this percentage are important for environmental factors, bunkering and aquaculture.