A policy brief for community gardens in Malta

Abstract

Malta is experiencing rapid urban development, leading to increased urban crowding and a lack of open green spaces. This is contributing to a decline in Maltese citizens’ well-being and to a loss of sense of community. Community gardening is a possible solution, providing several social, economic, and environmental benefits. This study explored factors which may facilitate or impede design and implementation of community gardens in Malta, with a particular focus on the role of local councils. Data was elicited from qualitative in-depth interviews with local council representatives and with professionals having relevant experience in community projects and/or urban gardening initiatives. Results highlighted significant institutional barriers that local councils face, and which currently hinder such initiatives. These include excessive bureaucracy, limited devolution of power, and limited resources. Nevertheless, it was evident that there is interest in community gardening and that any such initiatives would likely be well received by the community. The importance of active engagement of citizens in the co-design and running of such gardens was also noted. Given a clear need for policymakers to better facilitate community garden initiatives in Malta, a policy brief is presented; this draws on interview results and review of various international policy documents and research papers. This policy brief proposes the designation of community gardening as a recognised land-use, integration within other relevant national strategies, and empowering local councils and citizens through allocated resources and targeted decision-making processes. This study provides a basis for further research on community gardens in the Maltese context.