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A marine protected area in the making
Does a marine protected area need a legal framework?
Whether individually established or as part of a national or regional network, marine protected areas can only be successful if an appropriate legislative framework exists. Legislation should then be sustained by an effective management system, which is, in turn supported and accepted by the local communities.
In Malta, the setting up, regulation and management of MPAs is supported by international, regional and national legislation and local policies. The designation of the area between Rdum Majjiesa and Ras ir-Raheb as an MPA would aid in attaining the various objectives of these legal instruments.
Where is the marine protected area situated?
The Rdum Majjiesa to Ras ir-Raheb area is situated on the northwest coast of Malta. The management framework document for this area focuses on the marine environment covering an area of 8.5 square kilometres.
What is the physical environment around the area?
The geological formations along the northern part of the Maltese coastline are dominated by limestone features created by the presence of major faults. A number of bays and inlets characterise this region, with semicircular coves and blue clay slopes that are typical features lining this part of the coastline.