Bank of Valletta has announced the launch of a wide-ranging environmental initiative that will contribute towards a greener environment in every area of Malta and Gozo.
“The new environmental initiative that we have launched will see Bank of Valletta planting 50 trees in all localities in Malta and Gozo,” announced chief executive officer Tonio Depasquale.
“With over 60 local councils, our aim is to plant over 3,000 trees all over the islands,” said Mr Depasquale. “We are delighted to be working closely with the 34U campaign and local councils, and to be contributing in a tangible way through this environmental initiative, which should have a direct positive effect on local communities.”
A phased approach is being undertaken.
“A number of local councils have already been approached and invited to identify a space within their area where the trees that BOV is donating can be planted. It is our objective to plant trees in every locality in Malta and Gozo over the coming months,” Mr Depasquale explained.
The first area to benefit from this BOV initiative is Marsa. The local council identified Gnien 6 t'Awissu as the place where the trees that BOV donated were to be planted.
The trees which include the gharghar, olive and bay laurel varieties, were presented at a ceremony that was attended by Marsa mayor Francis Debono, BOV marketing and communication head Michael Galea, BOV Marsa branch manager Edward Grech, who was accompanied by a representatives of the Marsa branch staff, and Glenn Bugeja from the 34U campaign in the Rural Affairs and the Environment Ministry.
As he was planting the first tree under this initiative, Mr Grech explained: “BOV has its strength in the communities in which it operates. We look upon this initiative as an excellent opportunity to reinforce the relationships we have created in local communities, creating synergies between the bank and local councils and taking tangible steps towards the enhancement of community life and our natural environment.”
Thanking Bank of Valletta for its support, Marsa mayor, Francis Debono gave an overview of the work that has been undertaken in the Gnien 6 t'Awissu.
“Over the years, Marsa local council has developed this area into a natural recreational place in Marsa. We appreciate the assistance of corporations like Bank of Valletta that support initiatives for the localities, and hope that others will follow in their footsteps,” he said.
“We are delighted that Bank of Valletta has spearheaded this initiative, and is also assisting with the planting of these trees,” said Mr Bugeja.
“This initiative is strongly tuned to the spirit underlying the 34U Campaign. Our goal is to educate the general
public about our natural habitat, while promoting afforestation.”