Works have begun on a €1 million environmental regeneration project at Ġnien ta' Kalċi in Marsaxlokk, which will see a 6,500-square-metre site transformed into a green space aimed at boosting biodiversity and improving air quality, a government statement said.

Minister for the Environment Miriam Dalli and Minister for European Funds Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi, accompanied by Project Green officials and representatives from the Marsaxlokk Local Council, visited Ġnien ta' Kalċi (Kavallerizza) in Marsaxlokk to mark the launch of works on an environmental regeneration project.

Spanning an area of approximately 6,500 square metres, the project represents an expenditure of over €1 million and forms part of wider efforts to enhance green infrastructure across urban areas.

Minister Dalli spoke of the importance of such projects to address environmental challenges.

The project is designed to directly strengthen biodiversity by creating habitats for pollinating insects.

By restoring natural habitats, the initiative will contribute to a healthier and more resilient ecosystem will develop, the statement said.

"Today we are seeing the implementation of a number of projects. Ġnien ta' Kalċi is one of 16 open space projects within communities as part of the Community Greening Grant scheme. This was made possible thanks to Local Councils and environmental organisations, who came forward with proposals, and we are now working together to bring these projects to life," Dalli said.

Minister Zrinzo Azzopardi said that Ġnien ta' Kalċi is a clear example of how European funds can help protect and strengthen the environment.

"With an investment of over €1 million, this site is being developed as a protected natural space that preserves and enhances biodiversity, while also providing an open and accessible environment for everyone," he said.

Zrinzo Azzopardi said that it is a project that truly helps improve people's quality of life and promotes a more sustainable environment for the future.

In addition to its ecological benefits, the project will also help mitigate climate change.

The introduction of new vegetation will increase carbon absorption capacity within the locality.

The combined planting will result in approximately 2,800 kilograms of additional CO₂ sequestration annually.

This will not only help reduce greenhouse gas levels but also contribute to improved air quality for residents, the statement said.

It said that Ġnien ta' Kalċi demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainable urban development, balancing environmental protection with community needs.

Project Manager Tristjan Nikolic said that this project aims to address climate change.

"In this garden, we will be adding around 195 trees and 105 shrubs, carefully selected to support local ecosystems and contribute towards climate change mitigation."

Ġnien ta' Kalċi is funded through EU Funds under Measure 8.5 and forms part of the Community Greening Grant Scheme. The project is now underway and is expected to deliver a revitalised green space that will serve both ecological and social functions for Marsaxlokk and its residents.