Malta has launched its first 360-degree mapping of national waters through the OurOBS (Our OBServations) project, carried out aboard the Italian oceanographic research vessel R/V Gaia Blu.
The initiative, led by MCAST in collaboration with the Aquatic Resources Malta Agency, Science Malta and Italy’s Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), will study the physical and biochemical structure of the water column around the Maltese Islands, a government statement read. The project aims to deepen understanding of marine dynamics, coastal ecosystems and small pelagic fish, while also supporting sustainable fishing practices and long-term marine management.
Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research and Innovation, Keith Azzopardi Tanti, said Malta was committed to responsibly managing its seas, which are 14 times larger than its landmass. He stressed that the project supports the Malta 2050 Vision and builds the knowledge base needed for sustainable fisheries, coastal communities and future generations.
Parliamentary Secretary for Fisheries, Aquaculture and Animal Rights, Alicia Bugeja Said, described the initiative as an “important step forward” in ensuring Malta strengthens its capacity to sustainably manage marine resources. She underlined the role of science and collaboration in developing a resilient and sustainable blue economy.
Project Principal Investigator Professor Aldo Drago said the research represents a move towards an ecosystem-based approach to fisheries management, allowing for repeated observations and detailed studies on marine dynamics to guide sustainable fishing practices.
Other speakers included Simona Genovese from CNR, Aquatic Resources Malta CEO Dr Francis Fabri and MCAST Principal and CEO Stephen Vella, who highlighted the project’s scientific and educational value. MCAST students are also participating onboard to gain hands-on experience in marine research technologies.
The vessel also opened its doors to the public in an outreach initiative supported by Valletta Cruise Port, offering visitors the chance to explore its advanced research equipment and methods.
Preliminary findings from the OurOBS project will be released in the coming months, with the collected data to be made available for scientific use and policy-making to support sustainable management of Malta’s seas.