As we bid farewell to 2024 and embark on a new year, Friends of the Earth Malta (FoEM) celebrates a year of significant achievements. Guided by our strategic vision, 2024 was a year of internal growth, propelling us towards a future of hope, well-being, and environmental sustainability for Malta.
This past year witnessed a revitalized FoEM with a growing team and a vibrant array of innovative projects and activities. We advanced sustainable mobility initiatives and our activities related to farming and nature through numerous engaging events and workshops. The Green Resource Centre thrived, with the continuation of our monthly community garden events and also the weekly environmental youth hub, and a variety of other impactful activities. In 2024 we also joined the Zero Waste Europe Network as part of our plan to strengthen the Zero Waste campaign in Malta.
FoEM actively engaged the community in everyday actions to protect our local environment and raise awareness about global environmental challenges. We believe that widespread local action can create a powerful ripple effect, contributing significantly to global environmental change.
Below is a selection of our 2024 highlights. These accomplishments were made possible by the dedication and tireless efforts of our entire team, the invaluable support of our volunteers, and the continued generosity of our supporters. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you.
Promoting sustainable mobility through micro mobility initiatives
In 2024 we continued to organize a number of cycling training sessions and bike repair workshops for our volunteers, youth group members, and community members. These sessions are designed to cater to both beginners and experienced riders, providing a comprehensive learning experience for all. During one of the workshops organised on World Bicycle Day on 3rd June, we hosted an Urban Cycling Skills Training, aimed at boosting the confidence of cyclists. The training started with a presentation and discussion with expert cyclists, to learn about traffic rules and discuss tips and tricks about how cyclists can keep themselves safe while cycling on the road. After the theory, it was time to put this into practice, with a cycle around Floriana and Valletta, where participants learned about road positioning, how to tackle roundabouts and how to ensure visibility in traffic.
Community Garden
The Giving Garden at our office space in Floriana is an urban community garden where in 2024 hundreds of people came together to learn how to grow their own crops and herbs. This initiative aims to develop a sense of ownership and belonging and positively contribute to the therapeutic needs of Maltese communities. As in previous years, we organised monthly events during which participants gained hands-on experience in crop growing, preparing the soil, pruning, composting/ vermiculture, creating a seed bank, beekeeping, water conservation, planting crops/ tree saplings, and learning more about the world of gardening.
We plan to continue organising these events throughout 2025 – stay tuned by subscribing to our newsletter and like our facebook page
Good food good farming
Throughout the year we organised a number of activities including farm visits, exploring beekeeping and eating local and seasonal food. These events serve as an opportunity to connect with the farmers who produce our food and learn about the benefits of supporting local and sustainable farming practices.
We also organised a number of themed vegetarian cooking workshops including one which delved into the concepts behind zero waste cooking, from reducing food waste to sourcing ingredients with less waste.
As part of our commitment to supporting local agriculture, we have increased the number of farmers featured on our Malta Farm Map, an online platform dedicated to showcasing local farms and producers who wish to bypass intermediaries in their sales transactions in Malta and Gozo. This free service aims to connect farmers and customers directly.
European Networking
In 2024, Friends of the Earth Malta joined the Zero Waste Europe Network! Zero Waste Europe (ZWE) connects 36 local and national NGOs across Europe, all working toward one powerful goal: achieving a zero-waste future. We’re thrilled to be part of this network, ready to explore innovative ideas and collaborate with inspiring organisations. Keep an eye out for future projects, events and activities related to reducing waste & resource use over the coming months!
In May 2024 we also hosted the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Friends of the Earth Europe (FoEE), a significant event for environmental activists across the continent. The decision to hold the AGM in Malta reflected a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, bringing together representatives from over 30 different Friends of the Earth groups.
Climate Emotions Support Group
Climate change not only causes physical damage but also impacts our mental well-being. Climate worry, characterized by anxiety over the uncertain future resulting from worsening climate conditions, can lead to feelings of grief, anger, guilt, and shame, impacting mood, behaviour, and mental well-being. If left unaddressed, this anxiety can have significant negative effects on health.
To address this issue, in 2024 we have set up a Climate Emotions Support Group offering weekly sessions aimed at supporting young people and youth workers in managing and alleviating climate-related anxiety. If you’re interested in staying updated or joining our efforts to address climate anxiety, please click here.
Il-Forn ta Kemmuna
Friends of the Earth Malta (FoEM) is currently establishing an environmental education centre on Comino, aimed at fostering sustainable practices and community engagement. In 2024, the most sensitive sections of the Comino Bakery were secured with new doors in order to prevent further vandalism. We also organised a number of events and activities including a Treasure Hunt, in conjunction with the Gozo Region. Participants hiked around Comino and explored various sites and projects on safeguarding Comino’s nature. The aim of the event was to explore the island’s nature, history and culture. Stay tuned for more activities and find out how you can help save the il-Forn ta’ Kemmuna here.
In 2024 we also started to collect data via a survey to gather insights about visitors and other stakeholders’ experience visiting the island of Comino. This initiative aims to protect Comino and ensure the voices of all stakeholders are heard. We are still interested to hear your views…
Celebrating 40 Years of Impact
As we step into 2025, we are thrilled to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Friends of the Earth Malta – originally created under the name of Żgħażagħ Għall-Ambjent (Youths for the Environment), the organisation later became widely known as Moviment Għall-Ambjent (Movement for the Environment). This milestone inspires us to continue our vital work with renewed vigour.
Stay Connected
Stay tuned for exciting new plans and initiatives in 2025! Subscribe to our newsletter and like our facebook page to be the first to know about our upcoming events and activities.
Your Support Matters
Your continued support is crucial to our success. We invite you to become a supporter or renew your existing support. By ticking the “make this donation yearly” option on the form, you will receive a token of our appreciation for your commitment to a sustainable future.
Together, let’s make 2025 another year of impactful environmental action!”
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