Landscape diversity and protection in Malta

Abstract

The Maltese Islands represent an archipelago of small islands in the central Mediterranean region. Despite their overall small size, they house a rich biodiversity, good climate and prestigious cultural and natural heritage. Awareness of such rich heritage and natural beauty is increasing with time. The following article takes a brief overview at some Maltese legal instruments which have been adopted to protect the environment, landscapes and the natural and cultural heritage of this island. The analysis concentrates around various types of legislation starting by the Constitution of Malta which is the supreme law on the Maltese territory, and then continues with the analysis of primary and secondary laws, together with action programmes, structural and local plans. Some of the legislation quoted is very generic and open to various interpretations, whereas others especially the provisions found in secondary laws are more specific and detailed. From this brief analysis, it results that landscapes are not protected under one specific law, but such protection is guaranteed by various laws especially those found under the Act adopted for the protection of the environment.