On Friday, 20th June 2025, Friends of the Earth Malta (FoEM) officially launched its 40th Anniversary celebrations with an electrifying gig at the Green Resource Centre in Floriana. The event paid tribute to four decades of environmental activism, grassroots organising, and a steadfast commitment to environmental and social justice, all rooted in the organisation’s community-driven origins.

The evening was inspired by a desire to honour the organisation’s beginnings and to commemorate one of its most influential founders, Julian Manduca; a visionary environmentalist, activist, and musician whose legacy continues to shape the organisation’s work.

When planning the anniversary, FoEM looked back at the energy and spirit that drove the early days of the movement: street actions, zines, DIY organising, and a deep belief in the power of people to bring about meaningful change. With this in mind, it was only natural to kick off the celebrations with a gig that embodied that same grassroots values.

The event was themed around punk, not only as a genre of music but as a way of thinking; a symbol of resistance, creativity, and social rebellion. Punk has long been associated with activist movements, amplifying calls for justice and solidarity. Reflecting these values, the lineup featured three local bands known for addressing social issues through their music: KarmaĠenn, Mirage, and BILA. A pop-up bar was also set up for the occasion in collaboration with Tuff Drinks.

The evening opened with a solo performance by Noah from KarmaĠenn, a collaborative project known for its leftist lyrics and reflections on the lives of workers and artists in Malta. The event also coincided with the eve of KarmaĠenn’s new EP launch. As members of the other bands are also members of the project, so an impromptu “band practice” turned into a surprise live showcase of new music. Following Noah’s performance, FoEM’s Director, Martin Galea de Giovanni, delivered an opening speech, thanking the guests for their presence and ongoing support, and offered a brief reflection on the organisation’s history and achievements over the past four decades.

The second act, Mirage, brought a sense of continuity and nostalgia. Active since the 1980s, the band is deeply rooted in Malta’s underground scene. Some of its members recalled the early days of Żgħażagħ Għall-Ambjent, the youth movement that would evolve into Friends of the Earth Malta. Their presence was a symbolic bridge between past and present. Special thanks are extended to Jon, both for his musical contributions and for generously providing the sound system for the night.

The evening concluded with a high-energy performance by BILA, known for their sharp political commentary and raw stage presence. Their set was a powerful embodiment of the night’s punk ethos, blending grit, humour, and defiant spirit. As a surprise finale, underground artist Kodin Hill joined BILA onstage for a collaborative performance, closing the evening on a powerful note.

This anniversary event was a reminder of the strength of grassroots movements and the importance of community, creativity, and resilience. It was the first in a series of events marking Friends of the Earth Malta’s 40th year. Supporters are encouraged to stay updated through the organisation’s newsletter and social media for news on upcoming events and initiatives.

Here’s to Erbgħin Sena Għall-Ambjent; forty years of Environmental advocacy, education, and action! And here’s to the years to come!

Friends of the Earth Malta would like to extend heartfelt thanks to all those who made the event possible. Special appreciation goes to the bands KarmaĠenn, Mirage, and BILA for their collaboration and powerful performances; to Sound System for providing the sound for the evening; to Tuff Drinks for setting up the pop-up bar; and to 141 Records for generously lending the drum kit for the evening. The organisation also warmly thanks everyone who attended the event, not only for their presence on the night, but for being part of the organisation’s journey over the past four decades. Their continued support and solidarity remain the driving force behind the movement.