In view of the fact that Moviment Graffitti is not being officially consulted on the ‘Nature and Heritage Park’ project at Xaghra l-Hamra, it is putting forward its proposals and position regarding this project.

The Moviment suggests that: the project will be truly utilized for the common good by not being run by a private entity; the project should also incorporate the locality known as l-Ghammieq; due attention should be given to the sustainability of the locality (with regard to flora and fauna and water preservation); due restoration and preservation of the habitat including those of stone huts (giren), rubble walls and historical sites should be carried out; the present agricultural milieu should be protected and an organic farming project set up. This is not envisaged to be a difficult task in view of the fact that a farmer in the locality is already working on such a concept.

• The local product of this area should be adequately advertised, (so as to promote the local produce while decreasing the demand for foreign imported products, thus endorsing a more sustainable, environmentally friendly and cost effective way of life).

• The area should be promoted as a nature walk destination and for agro-tourism purposes.

• This project should serve as a good practice example of the beauty of the local natural habitat for the whole of Malta and Gozo

• The project should be supported through adequate public transportation to the locality. This would help to raise more awareness on environmental issues through decreasing emissions and undue traffic congestion caused by private transport.

Moviment Graffitti urges those NGOs that are in consultation with the government to emphasise the importance that “the locality is kept free from unsustainable practices such as trapping, hunting and off-roading”.

“Moviment Graffitti favours a project whereby the natural environment is safeguarded in its original state, without being in any way tainted by human intrusion.”