Saving Our Blue is a nationwide campaign that focuses on raising awareness on marine litter and the impact it has on our marine environment. This enhances the Ministry for the Environment, Energy and Regeneration of the Grand Harbour’s commitment to raise awareness to combat marine litter and single-use plastic and its impact on our planet.

The campaign, embarking on its sixth year, reaffirms the crucial need to take care of Malta and Gozo’s natural environment and keep it clean, if not cleaner. This campaign believes that each of us has the power to change and protect our environment. The campaign’s slogan stresses: Be part of the solution and not the pollution.

Why does it matter?

Because our oceans more than ever are accumulating plastic and immediate action is needed. It is time to rethink single-use plastics and eliminate their production and use. It is time to adopt their alternatives in the daily routine and become the norm.

What is the campaign working on?

Saving Our Blue has broadened its initiatives by introducing ballot bins on numerous beaches throughout Malta and Gozo, focusing on reducing the prevalence of one of the most commonly discarded items on our shores - cigarette butts.    

Were you aware that cigarette butts are made of plastic?

These butts are composed of tiny plastic fibers, which, if discarded on our beaches and subsequently washed into the sea, pose a danger to marine life. When smoking on any beach in Malta this summer, ensure you properly dispose of your cigarette butts in the ballot bins provided by Saving Our Blue. Don’t forget to participate by responding to the question featured on each bin. This campaign not only addresses environmental concerns but also launches initiatives to highlight the natural attractions of the Maltese Islands.

Among these is the Virtual Reality project introduced by Saving Our Blue last year, offering the public a virtual tour of seven distinct Marine Protected Areas, representing a selection of the 18 sites around Malta and Gozo. Furthermore, more interesting sites will be added this year.

Additionally, beach cleanups remain a pivotal effort in preserving Maltese and Gozitan coastlines. To date, more than 36 tonnes of waste have been removed from the nation’s beaches. In 2024 alone, a significant 1,457.97 kg of litter was collected through partnerships with NGOs, corporations, educational institutions, individuals, and other community groups.

This year, Saving Our Blue is once again partnering with Ambjent Malta for the educational Island Walks initiative. The public is invited to explore various scenic routes across the Maltese Islands, including the popular path on Comino. Participation in these walks is complimentary, although pre-registration is required.

What’s next?

Saving Our Blue is enhancing its partnership with Ambjent Malta by coordinating activities at the educational hub in Buskett. Schools and private groups that schedule ahead can immerse themselves in Virtual Reality experiences, engage in educational crafts and games, and join us for brief tours of Buskett led by knowledgeable officials.

Participants also have the opportunity to partake in potting activities. Moreover, this is just the beginning, as there are plans to broaden the impact with more innovative initiatives in the future.

Get involved!

If you’re keen on organising a cleanup or wish to provide your students or employees with a Virtual Reality experience, or if you simply want to seek further details about Saving Our Blue, feel free to reach out to i[email protected].

Stay updated and receive the newest tips by following the campaign's social media platforms here and here.