Summer’s just around the corner and everyone is gearing up to savour Malta’s beaches to the full. 

Whilst there’s absolutely nothing wrong with having a blast at the beach, it’s easy to forget that these spots are of great ecological importance, and a couple of seemingly harmless mistakes can adversely impact other beach-goers as well as surrounding ecosystems. 

So, in celebration of World Environment Day, we’re listing a couple of tips for how you can make the most out of your beach day whilst remaining eco-friendly.  

1. Don’t leave anything behind 

Rules don’t get much simpler than this.

Everything you take to the beach should go back home with you (or at least be disposed of in an appropriate manner). Whether it's cigarette butts, food bags, or plastic cups, be sure to leave nothing but footprints behind - no one likes a dirty beach after all. 

2. Take a packed lunch

Not only is this a cheaper option, but it will also spare you the hassle of throwing away all your rubbish at the end of your beach day.

Reusable containers are definitely the way to go when packing your food; this includes lunch boxes for your snacks and hardy water bottles, keeping your hydration cool for the entire day. 

3. Pack some eco-friendly sun block 

This one's a two-for-one special! Protect your skin whilst also saving the ocean and what lies beneath. 

Most sunblocks contain oxybenzone, a chemical that is highly harmful to coral reefs and speeds up the coral bleaching effect. 

Be mindful when buying your sunscreen. Look out for eco-friendly alternatives containing natural ingredients and avoid those containing oxybenzone.  

4. Take nothing but pictures

Although picking seashells might make for a fun activity, this can serve to harm our seas.

Seashells are pretty vital for marine ecosystems. Besides providing shelter for sea creatures, they help to stabilize beaches and anchor seagrass. Without a sustainable amount of seashells, the beach will go through the erosion process faster and thus result in a decrease of animals.  

So, rather than collecting a bunch of shells and taking them home, snap some pictures and let them keep doing their job. 

5. Respect those patrolling the beach

The HPF Ranger Unit does its best to protect us, the beach and the environment surrounding it.  

Do listen to their advice and respect all the work they put in so you can keep enjoying your day.  

Happy swimming!

Instagram/ maltaphotography