The Labour MEPs have nominated the environmental Non-Governmental Organisation ACT for the European Citizens’ Prize 2021. Every year, the European Parliament recognises individuals and organisations for their outstanding contribution to society.

MEPs Alfred Sant, Alex Agius Saliba, Josianne Cutajar and Cyrus Engerer have nominated ACT in recognition of its inspirational efforts towards environmental sustainability. Founded in 2018 by a group of youths, it has aimed to implement positive change by developing and applying solutions to environmental degradation, while enhancing the quality of life. ACT primarily focuses on conserving and revitalising the Maltese ecological landscape by re-establishing and promoting native flora species in their respective habitats to ensure long-term sustainability.

The organisation believes that the conservation of indigenous flora species is of utmost importance in our efforts to address climate change. Native trees and shrubs have unique genetic characteristics that make them compatible with local conditions and thus more likely to adapt to rapidly changing climate conditions. Hence their conservation could be key to ensure long-term environmental renewal.

ACT has managed to propagate successfully over 40 different species and in doing so, succeeded to conserve endangered native flora species that were at risk of being extinct. This could be for Malta, a game changing contribution to the European Green Deal since the protection of European indigenous flora could be fundamental in addressing climate change in a sustainable manner. Biodiversity protection is an integral part of the Green Deal.

ACT deserves being recognised as a model representative of our efforts to promote environmental sustainability through a pragmatic approach which seeks to mobilise young people and other citizens.