Zonqor point gathering celebrating nature on Sunday 30th August

Three NGOs, Why Not?, Friends of the Earth Malta and Koperattiva Kummerc Ġust are jointly organizing a gathering at Żonqor Point on the 30th of August to get Maltese people closer to nature, and to enjoy Żonqor Point in its natural state.

The NGOs say that the event was organized in light of the recent announcement regarding the Jordanian development which threatens 18,000 square metres  of the land, which is designated as ODZ.

 “It is imperative for people to visit the area, and experience first-hand what it is that we will be losing should the project go through,” their statement reads.

They added that although there is some disturbance due to human influences in the area, the general landscape is unique and already enjoyed by regular visitors in the area.

“We hope that through this event, we will show how important nature is to the Maltese people. The role of nature is often overlooked, ” Why Not? representatives said.

"Nature, heals soothes and restores the mind and body, and in today’s fast moving world, these therapeutic effects are of growing importance.

Making reference to several endemic species that call the site home, Elena Portelli from Friends of the Earth Malta said that Malta’s national plant, the Maltese rock centaury and the Maltese Salt-tree, two such examples would undoubtedly be adversely affected by the construction process and spill-over of construction materials in the area.

“The marine landscape at Żonqor point is renowned for its high aesthetic value; containing fertile reefs, and man-made wrecks (Le Polynesien and HMS) just a few kilometers offshore,” the statement adds, pointing out that Divemed, a popular diving school situated at Żonqor point will be organizing a dive in the area on Sunday to allow attendees to witness the beauty of Żonqor below sea level. “Any land reclamation in the area could have serious repercussions on sensitive reefs and also areas of ecological importance on the shore,” the statement adds.

The statement explains that Koperattiva Kummerc Ġust will be providing fair trade snacks and beverages to the attendees and that BottleGreen drinks – natural no-additive cordials - will also be available for purchase at the event.

The NGOs have invited people of all ages and from all walks of life to join them on Sunday after 6pm.

“Persons wishing to bring a BBQ are advised to apply for a permit with the Marsascala Local Council, keeping in mind that no BBQs are allowed near the salt pans,” the statement reads, adding that there will be a clean-up organised on Monday morning to ensure that the area is left in pristine condition.