Yacht marinas in the grand harbour of Malta : environmental impacts and regulations

Abstract

Current developments in the yachting industry highlight the potential for further yacht marinas around the island of Malta. However, marinas come at a cost of possible environmental impacts. This research focuses on three yacht marinas located in the Grand Harbour area and examines the management practices that are in place to minimise potential environmental impacts. The research covers the construction, operational and functional aspects of these three marinas. The results of this study provide an overview of the various mitigation measures undertaken by relevant authorities and marinas. Interviews undertaken with marina personnel and relevant authorities provide information on the environmental impacts that could arise and how these are targeted. Furthermore, observations conducted at the marinas provided first hand insight on the pressures and impacts that could arise and the measures in place to mitigate such events. The water tests showed a number of water quality parameters from the three marinas within the harbour area. The management systems adopted in the marinas are identified and provide background on how potential environmental impacts can be tackled. Apart from the environmental impact, the changes and development occurring in the locality of the yacht marinas are also considered. The discussion of the impacts revolves around the results obtained, other previous studies and related literature. Whilst yacht marinas are given instructions by relevant authorities, further guidelines and manuals for procedures would greatly benefit the current situation. With the development of marinas, relevant regulation, careful management, as well as long-term maintenance, is required to reduce potential environmental impacts and planning is needed to reduce avoid environmental impacts.