When ten days ago I attended the forum that proposed Gozo as ecological island, I discovered that the idea of Gozo as an ecosite had already been put forward 5 or 6 years ago.

A study was commissioned to Terence Calnan who presented a research based on other ecosites already existing in other parts of Europe.

I asked Mr. Calnan if it was possible to view the papers he had submitted 5 years ago and I proposed to make them available for download on this site. He agreed and here they are.

Eco Sites Agenda for 2003

Ecosites as field tools for implementing sustainable development in ERA (the European Research Area)

Ecosite Showcase – ECOSITE du Pays de Thau – by Terence Calnan

an Ecosite for Malta Ghajn Tuffieha Region – by Terence Calnan

Malta Ecosite – Questions, Answers & Actions at 6 June 2003 Workshop – By Terence Calnan

Last year, after following a University course on “Environment Management and Planning” I decided to submit a Essay about chameleons in Gozo.

For several months I studied these amazing creatures, observing them closely and mapping their locations throughout the island. During this time, I learned a great deal about these animals. Mostly learned to respect them.

Eventually as autumn set in last year, the chameleon went into hiding, and soon they nowhere to be found.
I completely forgot about them, until few days ago, passing through a busy area of Sannat, I saw a pair of goggled eyes staring at me from a small bush.

I am lazy and having been writing much lately.  Almost a months has passed since the Public Forum “Gozo as an Ecological Island” and I wrote nothing more on the subject.

Last month’s forum seemed to have sparked the idea of publicly discussing matters that are in the interest of most residents. That’s a great thing. A good democracy should promote public debates in which stakeholder can express their opinion and broaden their horizons.

Next on the list is about a debate that has been going on for many years. Whether or not implement a valid airlink between Gozo and Malta.

The discussion, promoted by Business Chamber of Commerce, will be held on Tuesday, the 1st of July 2008, at the Grand Hotel, Mgarr, at 7.30pm.  ( more details).

See you there.

Could Gozo become an ecological island? I don’t know, but it would be nice.

Yesterday, as the Mepa decided to go ahead with the shameful re-development of Mistra Villate, I attended to the first European Parliament Civil Forum discussing ‘Gozo as an Ecological Island’.

So, here are some of the points one needs to ponder on:

• Renewable Energy
• Water Conservation
• Ecotourism ( AgroTourism and FishingTourism)
• Organic Farming
• Nature Conservation
• Green Transport

In the coming days I will try to elaborate and give my personal view on these points. Feel free to post your comments.