Tomorrow, the 5th of June, is World Environment Day, and the theme chosen this year by the United Nations to mark this event is “Seven billion dreams. One planet. Consume with care.”
Therefore, Nature Trust (Malta) said, it is urging the Government, politicians, authorities and the general public “to take heed and embrace this year’s theme as it cannot be more appropriate for our islands especially considering their size and our high population density.”
NTM pointed out that, “our resources: land and groundwater are continually battered by continuous development and developmental proposals. This is emphasised more in ODZ areas (such proposals include the University of the South, the racetrack, the shooting range, the Gozo link are just a few examples).”
“Any development will eventually threaten our green areas and our diminishing groundwater. Moreover, the issue of illegal and free borehole water extraction should also be tackled appropriately and as soon as possible. NTM has been actively working these last few years on Education, sustainable development, water and climate change issues.” it said.
NTM said that it would like to remind the public that “our environment extends beyond our land and the importance of our marine environment and its resources should not be side-lined.”
In this context NTM would like to encourage the public that should they come across injured turtles, to call on 999 9505 or call the AFM, MEPA or the Police. People are asked not to cut any ropes/remove hooks from the turtles because these should be done professionally. Any attempt can jeopardise the life of these endangered animals as has already happened in the past, NTM said.
Finally NTM would like to urge people who would like to volunteer in various areas: activity organisation, wild animal rescue, tree nursery management, nature reserve management, to check out the NTM Facebook Page [1] or send an email to info@naturetrustmalta.org [2].
Photograph: Alain Salvary