Ocean Sentry
(From independent.com.mt)- Malta have been included within the Natura 2000 Network, a network of protected areas across the European Union, the Malta Environment and Planning Authority announced yesterday. The additions were made in view of the provisions for the protection of threatened natural habitats and species of importance established through the EC Birds and Habitats Directives. Considering the Birds Directive, a new site was designated as a Special Protection Area in the southwest of Malta – the ‘Wied Moqbol to Il-Ponta ta’ Benghisa’ area.
This site covers the coastal cliffs of the area, in view of its seabird communities. Additionally, the already designated Special Protection Area constituting the cliffs at Ta’ Cenc was extended, so that the whole of the plateau area is now afforded protection.
Once protected, Malta is to maintain or improve the conservation status of the sites forming part of the Natura 2000 Network. The management of designated sites is to be considered within a maximum of six years from when the European Commission accepts the sites within the Natura 2000 Network.
