Over 400 indigenous shrubs and trees are being planted at the I-Land Observatory and Interpretation Centre in tal-Kuncizzjoni, Mgarr, as part of the Italia-Malta programme known as SIMBIOTIC.

This project, co-financed by the European Union Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and national funds, looks to rehabilitate ecologically degraded spaces in the Maltese Islands.

“Indigenous species of trees were selected to rehabilitate and/or restore degraded biotypes and create, essentially, a Thermo-Mediterranean scrub assemblage. Care will not only be taken to ensure that indigenous and archaeophytic species will be used, but that these will be planted in ecological context,” explained Dr Louis Cassar, Director of the Institute of Earth Systems.

The I-Land Observatory and Interpretation Centre is a joint project between the Institute of Earth Systems of the University of Malta, the HSBC Malta Foundation and the Mgarr Local Council. Once up and running, the Centre will cater for capacity development in integrated natural and cultural heritage management within the area, offering a space for nature conservation and ecological restoration and an open recreational area.

“As Malta’s first centre for integrated natural and cultural heritage management, the I-Land Observatory and Interpretation Centre will offer an environmental management hub with outreach facilities and educational activities with the aim of promoting environmental awareness, and greater appreciation for Malta’s natural and cultural heritage,” Dr Cassar added.

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