Nature Trust – FEE Malta has joined Birdlife Malta and Din l-Art Helwa in their concerns about the operations allowing Noma Island to operate in the vicinity of Comino and along the surrounding coastline.

The organisation argued that ”this should be prohibited totally from operating in Maltese waters.”

NTM said that its key concerns are:

1. Protection of a Sensitive Ecological Site

Comino is designated as a Natura 2000 site and a Special Area of Conservation, forming part of an ecologically sensitive environment of both national and European significance. The introduction of additional commercial activity within or near this protected area poses a serious risk of irreversible harm to marine biodiversity, including habitats that sustain protected species and vital ecological processes.

2. Conflict with National Sustainability Objectives

The proposal runs counter to ongoing national efforts aimed at reducing over-commercialisation and alleviating mass tourism pressures on Comino. Other environmental organisations such as Birdlife Malta and Din L-Art Helwa have already raised concerns that further entertainment-oriented operations would increase human activity, noise levels and light pollution, and overall disturbance, thereby undermining current sustainability and restoration initiatives.

3. Increased Environmental Impact and Waste Generation

The proposed floating entertainment facility is likely to result in a significant rise in waste production, particularly marine litter. Existing evidence demonstrates that heightened tourism and commercial activity have already contributed to waste accumulation and environmental degradation in the area, placing additional strain on Comino’s fragile ecosystem.

4. Noise Pollution Concerns

Noise pollution remains a major issue. The introduction of amplified music and large gatherings at sea in close proximity to Comino would be incompatible with the preservation of its tranquil natural environment.

In view of the above, Nature Trust FEE Malta urged the relevant authorities to ”exert their pressure and refuse Noma operation around Malta’s coastal area – as France did.”

Photo: Ghajnsielem Local Council

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