Clients
Environment and Resources Authority (ERA)
Project Background
When it came to pre-2010 coastal water surveys, several studies had been carried out in various parts covering the Maltese coast.
However, no national baseline study had ever been carried out in line with the Water Framework Directive (WFD) and Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD). Most of the study initiatives were either driven by academic interest or to assess water bathing quality.
Request
AIS Environment conducted a baseline study of the Maltese Coastal Waters. The survey included assignments covering categories such as Air, Soil and Water.
Our Input:
An analysis of the existing monitoring programs
Through a comprehensive review of policy tools and legislative instruments.
Samples
The samples were analysed for various chemical pollutants, radiation levels and biological analyses such as phytoplankton.
The development of a long-term monitoring strategy
An implementation plan for the monitoring strategy
A feasibility assessment of programmes
A design of specifications
Mainly the design of long-term monitoring programmes.
Results
The results of the project were used by the Maltese Authorities to report the environmental status of our coastal waters to the European Union.
The results were also used to identify problem areas and to develop targets for improving the health of Maltese coastal waters.
