A hundred and fifty trees and shrubs were planted around the area of the Ta’ Qali National Stadium on the occasion of World Biodiversity Day.
This was announced by Minister for the Environment, Climate Change and Planning Aaron Farrugia and Parliamentary Secretary for Sport, Recreation and Voluntary Organisations Clifton Grima.
This initiative, forming part of the #ClimateOn campaign launched a couple of weeks ago, was organised by the Environment Ministry and Ambjent Malta in collaboration with the Malta Football Association (MFA).
Minister Aaron Farrugia explained that the slogan of this campaign – ‘Turn on the Power for Change’ – is a call for every citizen and local business to take necessary action in the fight against climate change, to reduce emissions and to safeguard the environment.
“In the same way, the government needs to set an example in this ecological transition, and we are doing this by investing in green infrastructure, various projects, and tree-planting initiatives like the one we are participating in today. The intention behind this type of collaboration is to encourage all members of society to take similar steps in favour of our environment,” Minister Farrugia said.
Minister Farrugia explained that tree-planting is directly related to climate change and biodiversity. Trees absorb carbon emissions, release clean energy, decrease temperatures, and serve as shelter and habitat for different species, thereby forming part of a chain in ecosystems which are so important for humans who depend on them every day.
The Minister explained that, as the world is celebrating Biodiversity Day, it is fitting to take the opportunity to continue to raise more awareness that will lead to more environmental initiatives, especially those which promote the fostering of biodiversity, such as planting trees and shrubs. “This should be the duty of every individual. Every human action must be responsible and sustainable, and we must remember that we only have one Earth with its own limits, and it depends on how far we protect it.”
Parliamentary Secretary Clifton Grima praised this initiative, whereby sport and environment are joining forces to achieve optimal results.
“Today, we saw how a number of sports associations united to plant a number of trees, which will help in making a difference in our country’s climate, as well as providing our children with a better environment,” Parliamentary Secretary Clifton Grima stated.