Gozo is an island in the Mediterranean Sea, one of 21 that make up the Maltese archipelago. Inhabited for thousands of years, it shows evidence of historic immigration and rule by the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, Sicilians, French and British, among others. It’s known for its Neolithic Ġgantija Temple ruins, rural hiking paths, beaches, and scuba-diving sites.
Nicknamed ‘the Eco Island’ by many, Gozo is one of the sister islands of the Maltese archipelago in the Mediterranean. Off the beaten path, Gozo has a solid track record of green initiatives which also help retain the island’s authenticity. Gozo was awarded the Quality Coast Gold Award for its sustainable practices by the Coastal Union.
Sustainability has become a way of life on Gozo. Local communities understand that the island is unique and that its culture and environment need to be protected for it to continue to thrive. Several initiatives have already been put in place, including the implementation of solar panel water heating, the use of photovoltaic panels, and the construction of a wastewater treatment plant. Many Gozitan valleys are cleaned on an annual basis in order to improve the catchment areas from flowing straight to the open sea. A number of villages on the island have been recognized with the European Destinations of Excellence awards and several popular beaches are now also blue flagged beaches.
Visitors have the opportunity to reduce their carbon footprint by using alternative modes of transport, including walking, cycling, Segway tours, and kayaking.
For more information on how to reduce carbon footprints while in Malta, visit https://www.visitmalta.com/en/seemore