Updated 1225
Malta Tops EU for Concern Over Loss of Natural Areas, Eurobarometer Finds: Malta ranks first in the EU for concern about the conversion of natural areas to other land uses, with 72% of respondents describing it as a major threat to biodiversity, according to a February 2026 Eurobarometer survey. The country also records the bloc’s highest concern over air, soil and water pollution (77%) and is the only member state where a majority (54%) view non-native species as a major biodiversity threat. While only 48% say they understand the term “biodiversity”, awareness of the Natura 2000 network stands at 32%, nearly double the EU average. Maltese respondents strongly support protected areas and favour better enforcement of existing environmental laws, alongside greater public information and community involvement. (Maltatoday)
Msida Creek Project Advances as Square and Promenade Near Public Opening: Works on the Msida Creek Project have entered a new phase, with efforts focused on preparing the regenerated square, waterfront and surrounding public spaces for use ahead of the parish feast celebrations. During a site visit, Infrastructure Minister Jonathan Attard said substantial progress has been made on paving, landscaping and accessibility improvements. Large sections of the square and promenade are expected to open to the public in the coming weeks. Major works, including underground utilities, an underground car park and the project’s central canal feature, will continue throughout the summer as part of the wider regeneration initiative. (The Malta Independent)
Morning Briefing
Malta records EU’s highest population density – Eurostat
Malta remains the European Union’s most densely populated country, according to the latest Eurostat figures, with 1,817 residents per square kilometre in 2024, more than three times the density of the second-ranked Netherlands and far above the EU average of 109.7. The country’s population reached an estimated 574,250 by the end of 2024, representing annual growth of 1.9%. The increase was driven largely by net migration, which totalled 10,614 people during the year, with non-EU nationals accounting for more than three-quarters of arrivals. Eurostat data also show that Malta recorded one of the strongest increases in population density across the bloc. Since 2015, the number of residents per square kilometre has risen by around 400, while many EU countries have seen density levels stagnate or decline. (Times of Malta)
Tree that killed motorist was supported by just one living root, court hears
A eucalyptus tree that collapsed onto a vehicle in Mrieħel in 2018, killing a motorist, was being supported by only a single living root despite appearing healthy from the outside, a court heard on Wednesday. Forester and environmental management professional Charles Grech, who was appointed by police to investigate the incident, testified that an inspection of the remaining stump revealed extensive root damage. He said all but one of the tree’s roots were dead and had likely been deteriorating for years due to long-standing damage and fungal attack. The tree fell during a severe storm on 10 February 2018, crushing a car driven by 38-year-old Romanian national Dan Udrea, who died instantly. His wife survived with injuries. Grech told the court that the decay would not have been visible to an ordinary observer, as the tree appeared green and healthy. He said only an experienced arborist or someone familiar with the area might have detected warning signs before the collapse. (Maltatoday)
Over 300 damage reports filed as Salini fireworks explosion inquiry continues
A magisterial inquiry into the explosion that destroyed the Madonna ta’ Lourdes fireworks factory in Salini 11 days ago is continuing, with investigators examining a 4,500-square-metre area affected by the blast. The investigation, led by Magistrate Joe Mifsud and supported by a team of experts, is making use of advanced technology, some of it being deployed for the first time, to establish the cause of the explosion and assess its consequences. Sources indicate that more than 300 reports of property damage have been filed with the police, while around 90 farmers were affected by the incident. The explosion caused extensive damage across the surrounding area, scattering debris over nearby fields and damaging agricultural structures. Several animals were also reportedly killed. Experts in engineering, chemistry, explosives, civil protection and the Armed Forces of Malta continue to assist investigators as efforts intensify to determine the source of the explosion. (TVM News)
