On the 3rd of July, Friends of the Earth Malta organised an evening nature trip to Comino from Gozo. The activity was supported by MTA and was organised in conjunction with Għajnsielem Local Council and Wave of Change.
The nature walk celebrated the island’s unique biodiversity while highlighting the importance of protecting its fragile ecosystems. The walk was led by Friends of the Earth Malta’s Educator, Annalise Falzon, whose expertise in Comino’s flora and biogeography brought the island’s landscapes to life. Through engaging storytelling, fascinating insights and plenty of memorable facts, she inspired participants to see the island from a new perspective and left them eager to learn more.
After a ferry ride from Gozo to Comino, the walk began at Santa Marija Bay, where participants were introduced to Comino’s varied coastal habitats – sandy beach, associated sand dune and the recently restored wetland. The island’s biodiversity was highlighted at random stops to observe and learn about native plants along the route. The group also had the opportunity to spot pollinators and other elements of the island’s biodiversity, gaining a deeper understanding of the vital role these species play in maintaining healthy ecosystems and supporting both nature and people.
A key stop along the walk was in the Il-Forn ta’ Kemmuna (the Old Bakery), a place that holds special significance for Friends of the Earth Malta. Participants learned about the organisation’s ongoing efforts to restore the historic building and its surrounding area, with the vision of transforming it into a space for environmental education, community engagement and future public use. The restoration project represents a long-term commitment to preserving both Comino’s cultural heritage, natural environment, and ecosystem services.
As the sun began to set, the group continued towards the Blue Lagoon, where the presence of a party boat with loud music and bright lights, provided a timely real-life example of the pressures facing Comino and opened the door to the discussion, led in collaboration with Wave of Change, on the impacts of light pollution and other human disturbances which threaten these fragile ecosystems. The conversation explored how excessive artificial lighting affects wildlife, disrupts ecosystems and diminishes our ability to experience the natural night sky. Participants reflected on the importance of responsible lighting practices, particularly in environmentally sensitive areas such as Comino.
The evening concluded at the Blue Lagoon as darkness fell, giving everyone a chance to reflect on the experiences and knowledge they had gained before boarding the ferry back to Gozo.
The event was part of Friends of the Earth Malta’s continued efforts to connect people with nature through hands-on experiences that encourage appreciation, learning and environmental stewardship. By exploring Comino’s landscapes on foot and discussing the challenges facing its ecosystems, the participants were reminded of the importance of protecting Malta’s natural heritage.
For more info about Comino visit www.kemmuna.org
Written by Ana Carneiro (Climate Campaign Support ESC)