500kg of debris was collected in an underwater cleanup held at the Ċirkewwa South Quay on Saturday, the three NGOs who organised it said in a statement.

St John Ambulance and Rescue, Coast is Clear and Calypso Sub Aqua joined forces on Saturday to organise a highly successful underwater clean-up at Ċirkewwa South Quay.

The initiative highlighted the strength of collaboration between NGOs, bringing together volunteers, divers, and supporting entities in a collective effort to safeguard Malta's coastal environment.  Volunteers joined forces to remove debris from the seabed, improving safety for divers and protecting marine life.

A total of 70 volunteers including 10 AFM and CPD personnel took part in the operation. Over 500 kilograms of debris were collected from the seabed, significantly contributing to marine conservation efforts and improving diving safety at Ċirkewwa.

Volunteers also received support from the Armed Forces of Malta (AFM), the Civil Protection Department (CPD), and Cirkewwa Marine Park Divers. Special thanks were also extended to Transport Malta, the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA), Mellieħa Local Council, the Police for their assistance and collaboration, to Farsons for providing refreshments, and Watercolours Dive Centre and Dive Systems limted for supporting with equipment.

This event is one of the key deliverables of St John Ambulance and Rescue's VOPS-supported project, thanks to Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector, which has enabled the purchase of a coastal rescue truck to enhance coastal and marine emergency response. Additionally, a series of awareness campaigns have been launched on social media, promoting diving safety, coastal protection, and environmental conservation.

The event was attended by Ministers Ian Borg and Julia Farrugia Portelli, who commended the initiative and recognised the importance of partnerships between volunteers, NGOs, and authorities in preserving Malta's marine environment.

Julia Farrugia Portelli, Minister for Inclusion and Voluntary Organisations, commended the initiative and underlining the vital role of NGOs and volunteers in environmental protection. She specifically highlighted the strength of collaboration between St John Ambulance and Rescue, Coast is Clear, and the Calypso Sub-Aqua Club, noting that their joint effort serves as a model for successful partnership in safeguarding Malta's marine environment.

Ian Borg, Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade, meanwhile highlighted the importance of protecting Malta's seas through collaboration between volunteers and authorities.