The National Youth Council (KNZ) has said that “as stewards of our environment, it is incumbent upon us to scrutinise decisions that may influence the ecological equilibrium and cultural landscape of our communities.”
The KNZ has issued a statement on the recent chopping down of trees in Mosta Square and other such issues, which is also endorsed by; Kollettiv Zghazagh, EkoXellugin, Betapsi malta, ESO, MZPN, Ghsl, Malta Model United Nations Society, S-cubed, ASCS, UM rowing, Jef Malta, Gozo University Group, Saces, MKSA, KSU, vuci kollettiva, MIRSA and Din l-Art Helwa Ghawdex.
The KNZ said that it it is alarming that, despite numerous assurances of promoting a greener and more sustainable future within our communities, instances akin to the one that transpired last week persistently recur.
It noted that a number of trees that have adorned the periphery of the Mosta Rotunda for over fifty years, contributing to the community and ecosystem throughout this duration, have nonetheless been earmarked for relocation.
While the Local Council promised to replace them with indigenous species, KNZ said “it is essential to acknowledge that the ecological benefits of the incumbent ficus trees, once uprooted, may not be replicated by their replacements.”
This, the KNZ stressed, is because the significance of these mature trees extends beyond their aesthetic contributions; they have played a pivotal role in enhancing the environmental quality of the vicinity, especially in providing habitat for birds.
“Preserving the legacy of all the long-standing trees that adorn our islands, is integral to the visual and environmental identity of the county, and warrants careful consideration.
“The proposed relocation, carried out with the blessing of the Environment and Resources Authority, prompts contemplation of the potential ecological impact and questions on how this was allowed,” KNZ said.
“This includes assessing the adaptive capacity of the indigenous replacements to fulfil the ecological roles previously assumed by the ones present, the KNZ said, “especially considering the seasonal habitation of Spanish Sparrows, White Wagtails, and Common Starlings during the night.”
It also pointed out that “one must also not forget the positive implications these trees have on reducing pollution.”
The KNZ insisted that “the forthcoming transition, for all the country, should be approached with a judicious balance between urban development aspirations and the preservation of cherished natural assets.”
For instance, KNZ argued, “the removal of trees that adorned the Paola and Nadur squares during the site upgrade project, not only resulted in reduced space for birds to roost but it further contributed to the urban heat island effect.”
“This project echoes the current frustration felt by many, as further land is buried under a sea of cement and tarmac,” KNZ said. “To this end, the preservation of our natural heritage should be a priority to maintain the delicate balance between urban development and environmental conservation.”
“We are glad to hear that the Local Council has reversed its plans to relocate these trees,” KNZ said. “However, it is imperative that the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) takes decisive action in the best interests of the community and the environment.”
After a day long protest to stop the relocation of these trees, KNZ said it was shocked to hear that law enforcement officials apprehended Mr. Andre Callus of Moviment Graffitti during a direct action.
“This situation poses a challenge to the essential conditions for conducting a peaceful demonstration. Consequently, as the National Youth Council, we condone the perpetuation of such occurrences and urgently appeal to the pertinent authorities to safeguard this fundamental human right to hold peaceful protests,” it said.