Malta is one of the most densely populated countries in the world. Maltese people are already far too familiar with crammed roads and polluted air. Urban planning, communal recreational spaces and planted areas are overlooked. So how can we ensure that the cities of the future will be worthwhile to live in?
The UM is excited to announce its recent award of a €10M grant for a four year project called VARCITIES under Horizon 2020 EU with the objective to improve economic growth, and environmental, cultural and social sustainability in European cities. From ten countries, 25 institutions are contributing to the project with a focus on citizen science and engagement in their respective localities.
Research in Malta will take place in Gzira, around the busy Rue d’Argens road. With constant traffic noise and pollution, few green areas and plentiful plans for high-rise buildings, this site exemplifies many problems faced nationwide. These problems will be addressed through a variety of approaches including monitoring, modelling and citizen engagement.
As part of the VARCITIES project, four faculties within the University of Malta are working together with tech company Dartekk Ltd., represented by Mr Neil Baldacchino, NGOs and the Gzira Local Council to improve the quality of life for its citizens, some of whom will also engage with the project as citizen scientists to help create green spaces. The project is being led locally by Dr Ing Daniel Micallef, senior lecturer of the Faculty for the Built Environment and Dr Edward Duca, science communicator and lecturer based at the Centre for Entrepreneurship and Business Incubation. Other collaborators include Dr Kenneth Scerri, Dr David Suda, Dr Ing Simon Paul Borg, Prof Vincent Buhagiar, Dr Mark Anthony Caruana and Prof Emmanuel Sinagra.
The UM is working closely with Mr Conrad Borg Manché, Gzira Mayor and Mr Fabian Borg, Assistant Principal Officer of the Gzira Local Council. VARCITIES has also partnered with the Environmental Resources Authority manager, Ms Nadine Mercieca.