Nature Trust (Malta) has said that it welcomes the Pope preaching on the need for a better environment and environmental conservation across the planet.

Pope Francis, last month announced his decision to set up a “World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation” which will be celebrated on the 1st of September annually.

NTM said that it has been working towards creating environmental awareness since 1962 when it was initially set up as then the Natural History Society of Malta.

“Our natural environment has over the years continued to degrade as a result of human mismanagement in this sector. Today our planet is faced with issues such as Climate change, pollution problems, poverty and human migration, lack of certain resources and many more.”

NTM stated that “while many may think that these are issues only affecting other countries, Malta is also getting its share in the environmental degradation process. The effects of climate change are being felt and our countryside is under pressure of illegal dumping, over development, biodiversity loss and irresponsible decisions by past and present Governments.”

Nature Trust (Malta) added that it noted with pleasure that HE Archbishop Charles J. Scicluna is also guiding the church on a local level towards environmental conservation. “NTM feels that the church in Malta still maintains a major influence and can therefore help to create awareness and instill national pride in our citizens towards our natural heritage.”

On the occasion of the first World Day of Prayer for Care of Creation, to be commemorated every 1st September, as designated by Pope Francis, the NGO calls on all to act and also demand action on a national level for the environment to be put higher on a national level.

Photograph: Alain Salvary

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