A group of Junior College students accompanied by the lecturers Mr Samuel Stellini and Mr Riccardo Flask, recently visited the Dwejra Marine Education Centre in San Lawrenz, Gozo. The aim of this visit was to learn about the effect of Global Warming on the flora and fauna of the Mediterranean, with special focus on its impact on Maltese waters. The College partnered in this Erasmus+ project together with Poland, Cyprus, Greece and Croatia. Each country is investigating the effect of climate change separately and will eventually come together in July to discuss the findings.
During the visit to Dwejra the students had a talk by a retired fisherman who stressed the fact that the fish population has declined heavily, mostly due to overfishing. He also explained traditional fishing techniques and showed samples of equipment which is still being used today.
Professor Alan Deidun, a marine biologist who is also the founder of the Dwejra Marine Education Centre, gave a thorough explanation about the invasion of alien species (not just fish), which are affecting the marine environment due to the rise in sea temperature making it fit for such invasive species. Prof. Deidun explained how alien species find their way to the Mediterranean through the Suez canal in many ways including ship ballast tanks. He mentioned that some species are also finding their way from the Atlantic through the straight of Gibraltar.
Another presentation was delivered by Professor Matthew Montebello, a lecturer and seasoned diver, who gave his view on the subject and the changes he witnessed in the marine environment along the years. Professor Montebello emphasised the need to act now and employ more environmental friendly measures.
Finally, the students and their lecturers did a beach cleanup, where they collected a bag full of waste including plastics, pieces of netting and paper, which would otherwise end up polluting the sea. Anyone interested in such projects is invited to contact Ms Boryana Chaneva at the JC International Office.
