A group of Bank of Valletta employees left their desks and counters to lend a hand planting carob, cypress, oak and pine trees within the picnic area of the Ta’ Qali National Park. The initiative, undertaken during normal working hours, was organised as part of the BOV Ta’ Qali Environment Project launched last year, and for which the bank is the main sponsor.

Two clusters of about 36 trees each, were planted by the team of BOV volunteers under the supervision of specialised staff from the Rural Affairs and the Environment Ministry. Once completed, this area will comprise a total of five new clusters of trees, all of which are being financed by BOV under the Environmental Pillar that constitutes an important element of its extensive Community Programme. The BOV Ta’ Qali Environment Project also involves the installation of new park furniture consisting of wooden benches, picnic tables and separation bins as well as the landscaping of the area.

Michael Galea, head of marketing and communication at Bank of Valletta, said that with a branch in practically every locality in Malta and Gozo, and a workforce of 1,500, BOV has very strong ties with Maltese society. “Our environment is an important asset that cannot be taken for granted. Thus, we seek to remain at the forefront in organising activities to improve our habitat, while taking initiatives to enhance awareness about environmental issues, both within the bank and among the community at large,” Mr Galea said.