Wave of Change to launch new campaign at Xrobb l-Għaġin this Saturday

Wave of Change is launching a 2026 environmental awareness campaign focused on the impact of artificial light on wildlife and coastal ecosystems.

The campaign will begin with a public event called A Night for Turtles at the Xrobb l-Għaġin Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre on Saturday at 6pm.

It is being organised in collaboration with Nature Trust Malta and Telescopes and Accessories Malta.

Wave of Change said the campaign, titled Light Matters, will raise awareness about artificial light at night, known as ALAN, and its effect on marine and coastal ecosystems.

Poorly designed or excessive lighting can affect wildlife behaviour, migration, reproduction and biodiversity, the organisation said.

Saturday’s event will focus on turtle nesting and hatchling behaviour and is timed to coincide with the start of Malta’s turtle nesting season.

Artificial light near beaches can disorient hatchlings, which usually use natural light over the sea to find their way to the water. It can also disturb nesting females.

The evening will include a guided tour of the Xrobb l-Għaġin centre, followed by a talk and discussion on the importance of darkness for turtle nesting and wider ecosystems.

After refreshments, participants will be invited outdoors for a night sky observation session.

Wave of Change said artificial light at night was an environmental issue that often went unnoticed, despite having “real consequences for wildlife and ecosystem health”.

Image: Wave of Change

The organisation said the campaign would encourage discussion about practical ways people can reduce the impact of artificial light.

A Night for Turtles is the first in a series of events planned throughout 2026, each focusing on a different aspect of light pollution and its ecological effects.

For bookings and further information, members of the public may visit Wave of Change’s social media pages or contact the team directly on waveofchangemalta@gmail.com.