Trees for Malta.
I have been very lucky to have had the opportunity to live and work in the tropics. Countries like Brunei have beautiful rain forests, Sri-Lanka is full of fruit trees, mango, papaya and banana, to name a few. Even Almaty in Kazakhstan although not tropical, has beautiful tree lined streets, boulevards and lovely parks. I love nature and open spaces.
I was surprised when I arrived in Malta, to see so few trees and was even more surprised to discover Malta has one of the least amount of green infrastructure, urban green space, and urban tree cover (European Environmental Agency, 2022). This is especially noticeable in cities like Valetta. However, the Maltese people are very aware of climate change and the environment, with 98% believing that environmental problems directly impact their daily lives (Lovin Malta, 2014).
I would love to start a programme, with volunteers who could donate indigenous trees, others who would be willing to plant them and to ensure they are watered and looked after. ‘Trees help prevent flooding, release oxygen, reduce pollution, and boost both health and mood. Trees enhance life in a multitude of ways’ (Harvard Health, 2024). I believe planting more trees in Valletta and Malta, would create more open spaces for families and people to slow down, relax and just stop for a while and enjoy nature. Additionally, it would help keep our island cool and cut down on air pollution.