Malta

The North-East Malta MPA is a Marine Protected Area  in the waters off Malta, specifically designated to protect significant habitats like Posidonia oceanica seagrass meadows and other marine species. It serves as a key area for conservation efforts, managing conflicts between shipping, fishing, and other activities within the designated zone. 

Key Aspects of the North-East Malta MPA

• Habitat Protection:A primary focus is the conservation of crucial marine habitats, including the extensive Posidonia oceanica seagrass meadows. These meadows are vital for coastal biodiversity and play a role in mitigating climate change by storing carbon. 
• Species Protection:The MPA also protects various iconic marine species found in the Mediterranean, such as the Noble Pen Shell (Pinna nobilis) and the star coral (Astroides calycularis). 

Marine Spatial Planning (MSP):Management of the area involves implementing marine spatial planning to address the cumulative pressures from human activities like shipping, fisheries, and aquaculture.