Press Release | Honouring the Maltese Honey Bee: Naming Streets and Gardens

The Maltese Honey Bee (Apis mellifera ruttneri) has long played a crucial role in Malta’s ecosystems, pollinating native flora and contributing to biodiversity. Recognising its significance, the Foundation for the Conservation of the Maltese Honey Bee has spearheaded multiple initiatives to ensure its protection and raise awareness about the importance of safeguarding this unique subspecies. A major initiative was to have our endemic honey bee declared the National Insect of Malta. A vital part of this journey has been the collaboration with Local and Regional Councils across Malta and Gozo, which have played an instrumental role in making conservation efforts a success.

Commemorating the National Insect

The Foundation is now proposing a new initiative: encouraging Local Councils to name streets and gardens after the Maltese Honey Bee. By dedicating public spaces to the ‘In-Naħla Maltija’ (Maltese Honey Bee) or ‘L-Insett Nazzjonali’ (National Insect), communities can pay tribute to this vital species and embed its significance into everyday life. These initiatives would serve as lasting reminders of the bee’s role in Malta’s natural heritage while reinforcing public awareness of its importance.

The Maltese Honey Bee is so deeply intertwined with Malta’s identity that even the name of the country itself is derived from meli, melite, melita, meaning honey—a product of the honey bee. This linguistic heritage highlights the enduring connection between Malta and its native pollinator, making the initiative even more meaningful.

Local Councils across Malta and Gozo are invited to take part in this effort by considering the renaming of existing public spaces or dedicating new ones to the Maltese Honey Bee. This not only honours the bee’s contribution to the island’s biodiversity but also fosters a stronger environmental consciousness among residents and visitors.

The Process of Naming Streets and Gardens

To proceed with this initiative, Local Councils must adhere to the legal framework set out by Maltese legislation. According to Subsidiary Legislation 363.10, the process for naming or renaming streets is clearly outlined. Article 2 of the legislation states:

“The naming or renaming of streets, other than arterial and distributor roads determined by the Structure Plan as specified in Article 33(2) of the Local Government Act, shall take place after the Local Council of that locality submits its recommendation to the Minister responsible for the Electoral Office, who shall, prior to directing the alteration of the name of any street or giving or approving a name to a new street in terms of Article 115 of the Code of Police Laws, refer such recommendation to the appropriate Street Naming Committee for its advice.”

This means that Local Councils must first approve the proposal at the community level before submitting an official request to the Minister responsible for the Electoral Office. The proposal is then reviewed by the Street Naming Committee, which provides its advice before any final approval is granted.

Community Involvement and Environmental Awareness

Beyond the administrative process, the initiative presents a valuable opportunity for community engagement. Schools, environmental groups, and residents can be involved in discussions and events celebrating the Maltese Honey Bee’s importance. Educational activities, commemorative plaques, and public art installations could further enrich these spaces, making them not only symbolic but also informative.

A Lasting Legacy for the Maltese Honey Bee

By naming streets and gardens after the Maltese Honey Bee, Malta can ensure that future generations remain aware of the vital role this species plays in the local ecosystem. Such initiatives align with broader conservation efforts and help cultivate a culture of respect and appreciation for biodiversity. The Foundation for the Conservation of the Maltese Honey Bee urges Local Councils to consider this proposal and contribute to securing a lasting tribute to the island’s cherished pollinator.

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