Addressing front gardens as part of a GI strategy to increase biodiversity and reduce climate effects in Malta

Abstract

Front gardens in Malta are limited in size and quantity, but increasing their frequency over the island could increase biodiversity connectivity and decrease harsh climate effects such as flooding and air pollution. Previous greening schemes involving front gardens have failed in Malta and the number of front-gardens-to-single-family-homes in Malta is decreasing as construction of apartment buildings is increasing. This study examined the feasibility of implementing a front garden program in Malta like the front yard garden program, Fleet Farming, in Orlando. The methods involved an extensive literature review and interviews with members from the Fleet Farming program and stakeholders in Malta that have worked on previous greening schemes. It was found that, while the Fleet Farming program would not be able to be directly translated to the Maltese climate and culture, a similar program could be implemented if proper adjustments are made, based mainly on the size of the garden plots. This study is the foundation for future front garden greening schemes and suggests future research in alternative growing methods for front gardens, such as raised beds, containers, and green roofs. Studies on best locations would also be recommended to improve overall success rate of the viability of gardens. This study highlights the importance of front gardens in Malta and aims to support the development of a collaborative community program to increase the usage of front gardens throughout the island.