Over two dozen HSBC Malta Foundation volunteers supported the efforts to revive the lost glory of Torri l-Abjad (White Tower) by planting trees around the area of the iconic outpost. The Foundation, which is helping Din l-Art Ħelwa restore and rehabilitate the historic Torri l-Abjad complex, recently welcomed a group of 30 HSBC employees plant a total of 35 African Tamarisk trees in Daħlet ix-Xmajjar, in the vicinity of the tower.

These trees compensate for another 35 that had to be uprooted during the clearing of the tower site as per ERA’s policy, which regulates that uprooted trees must be compensated in equal numbers. The activity took place under the expert guidance of the Foresta 2000 rangers from the Għadira Nature Reserve.

Last August, HSBC Malta Foundation entered into a three-year partnership with DLĦ to restore the splendour of the iconic tower as well as its outer fortification. Torri l-Abjad is being rehabilitated as part of a multi-phased project, which includes a protectivefortification consisting of an artillery battery and ditch. The project also encompasses the completion of dormitories and other facilities, as well as a visitor centre and didactic facilities. The tower was originally built in 1658 and saw redevelopment during the Knights’ period circa 1716.

“There is a lot of science that shows the positive visual, environmental and health impacts from planting trees in communities. It was so great to see colleagues coming out with their sleeves rolled up, ready to plant these trees in difficult weather conditions. We are pleased to support this important community initiative as part of our partnership with Din l-Art Ħelwa,” said Astrid Micallef-Saliba, manager, Corporate Sustainability at HSBC Bank Malta.

The visitors also received a tour of the site where they observed progress on the rehabilitation project. The tour was given by DLĦ site manager Martin Vella. The NGO’s executive president Maria Grazia Cassar thanked the participants.