In November 2025, a series of Local Action Group (LAG) meetings were held in Malta as part of the COASTRUST project, bringing together users and stakeholders of the Ċirkewwa Marine Park.
On November 12, 2025, a launch event for the first Local Action Group of the COASTRUST project was held at the Paradise Bay Hotel, providing updates on ongoing initiatives at Ċirkewwa Marine Park and highlighting the role of community involvement in stewardship. The meeting introduced the COASTRUST project, focusing on shared stewardship, biodiversity protection, and sustainable resource management, while emphasising the ecological importance of the park and the need for active conservation. Key challenges, including pollution, habitat degradation, and human impacts, were discussed alongside the role of citizen science in monitoring and data collection. Participants were encouraged to engage in initiatives such as fish surveying and Posidonia protection. The session concluded with a networking segment supporting collaboration.
Later that day, a Local Action Group gathering at Ċirkewwa Marine Park brought together users interested in citizen science, reinforcing community involvement and providing a platform for exchanging ideas on improving training, data collection tools, and communication. Organisers presented ongoing projects and encouraged active participation in conservation activities, with the meeting concluding in a strong sense of shared commitment to the long-term protection of the marine park.
On November 14, 2025, a follow-up Local Action Group meeting was held in Dwejra, Gozo, focusing on the engaging users interested in the stewardship of the marine conservation efforts and surveys at the Ċirkewwa Marine Park. The discussion highlighted the importance of underwater fish surveys and accurate data collection for effective conservation strategies. Participants, including scientific divers, marine biologists, and local stakeholders, shared insights and contributed to the development of survey methodologies. Discussions also explored standardized data collection approaches, community involvement, and the potential for formalising stewardship commitments. All participants expressed their willingness to continue engaging in future activities, reinforcing their commitment to the park’s long-term conservation.
On November 20, 2025, the Environmental Resources Authority offices in Malta hosted a pivotal follow up strategic Local Action Group meeting. Attended by national authorities, the session highlighted key challenges, including pollution, overfishing, and habitat degradation, while exploring innovative marine stewardship approaches, particularly for engaging less active stakeholder groups. Participants from government, environmental NGOs, and educational institutions contributed insights on strengthening conservation strategies through the integration of scientific research and community involvement. Discussions also addressed the need for improved regulatory frameworks and explored the role of technology in marine management, including eco-friendly moorings, educational tools, and environmental monitoring solutions. The meeting concluded with a strong commitment to continued collaboration, with participants expressing their willingness to remain involved in Local Action Group activities and support the long-term protection of the marine park.
