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 11: Participatory conservation (Code PC1-4)

PC1: Members of society view Malta’s biodiversity and its conservation as a “national insurance policy” and actively engage in resource efficient lifestyles and practices as well as participate in conservation measures, coordinated by voluntary bodies entrusted with the role of inspiring and engaging the public in conserving biodiversity within their locality.

PC2: The positive and active role of Maltese farmers as stewards of agro-biodiversity and in the maintenance of the countryside and rural environment is encouraged.

PC3: Outreach to farming, fisheries and aquaculture cooperatives, as well as hunting associations, helps to foster new partnerships and new projects or other collaborative work in support of biodiversity.

PC4: The CBD Plan of Action on Sub-national Governments, Cities and Other Local Authorities for Biodiversity is implemented by:

• Engaging local councils in the development and implementation of Malta’s NBSAP, and encouraging them to reach out to major groups such as children and youth, women, NGOs and businesses;

• Raising awareness and promoting local action and synergistic partnerships for biodiversity in their locality; and

• Recognising and rewarding efforts of local councils and communities in implementing the NBSAP in their locality; and integrating biodiversity considerations into urban infrastructure investments and procurement choices.

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.