This action has started since Sep 2020 and still ongoing along year 2024.

We are taking this action seriously as to reach our target of ‘Zero Cleanups’ in a place called Ghar Lapsi, Is-Siggiewi which is part of a Natura 2000 site. We selected from Ghar Lapsi bay till Tal-Maghlaq quarry.

To reach our main target, the below is being done;

1.  Investigate any illegal dumping material for any proof which leads to the environmental criminal.
2.  Report any illegal dumping activity to the Environmental Resources Authority or police. In one particular case we went to Court to show any evidence found in collaboration with NGO Malta Ranger Unit.
3.  Inform responsible government entities if any corrective actions need to be taken by other entities such as any maintenance required to reduce illegal activities.
4.  Clean up the area as a form of protest (we try to do it weekly when possible).
5.  Every illegal dumping is shared on facebook page to create awareness among the people who live in the surrounding areas such as Haz-Zebbug, Is-Siggiewi, Il-Qrendi, Iz-Zurrieq and environmentally related groups.
6.  Illegal dumping activities attract other environmental crimes such as littering, illegal fires, burning of protected trees and other flora and fauna, pollution, and off-roading.
7.  Illegal dumping activities help other AIS (Alien and Invasive Species) plant species to spread in the protected Natura 2000 site.
8.  Other illegal industrial operations at Ghar Lapsi Reverse Osmosis and Ta’ Bellula quarry were reported.

Trends in 4 years show improvements below;

1.  We have seen a reduction of registered fires in the area that we are taking care of.  From 7 fires in 2021 to 1 fire in 2024 (highest average  temperature recorded).  This is a contribution to reduce carbon emissions, increase the biodiversity in the area and even give more time for flora to flourish again.  Less work for the Civil Protection Department and less damage to near fields.
2.  We removed about 2200 bags and 20 jumbo bags from a protected site.  This material was covering the soil and garigue surfaces – now is free from this foreign material and flora can take it back again.
3.  Illegal dumping – we have seen a decrease in this illegal activity but we are not yet satisfied.  Littering is still ongoing frequently with no enforcement.  Zero cleanups target is not yet met.
4.  WE WILL CONTINUE… 🙂