Project Silva: Over 55,000sqm of Afforestation Underway in Aħrax and Miżieb

Conservation and afforestation works are in full swing in Aħrax ta’ Ġewwa and Miżieb, led by Ambjent Malta through the Project Silva Green Pathways initiative. Ministers Miriam Dalli and Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi visited the sites to oversee progress on this €1 million investment aimed at enhancing biodiversity and combating environmental degradation in Malta’s northern woodlands.

Covering over 55,000 square metres — roughly the size of seven football pitches — the project includes the planting of 1,800 indigenous trees, removal of invasive species like Acacia spp., restoration of traditional stone structures, and installation of water-efficient irrigation systems.

The initiative also aims to connect Natura 2000 sites and support migratory species through improved habitat corridors. Dead pine trees are being removed and recycled into compost, while fire prevention signage will be installed for visitor awareness.

Minister Dalli emphasised that the project embodies the government’s vision of resilient ecosystems and improved quality of life, while Minister Zrinzo Azzopardi highlighted how EU funds are being used strategically for long-term environmental benefits.

Ambjent Malta’s Chief Scientific Officer Dr Alexander Borg Galea explained the goal to raise native tree coverage from 8.5% to 42%, enhancing carbon sequestration and landscape quality.

This EU-cofunded project (75% funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development) is part of Malta’s broader push toward sustainable environmental stewardship.

📸 Photos: DOI/MEEC-MFI

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