Maltese Honey Bee Conservation: Phase 2 Action Plan Launch

The Foundation for the Conservation of the Maltese Honey Bee is pleased to announce the launch of Phase 2 in the development of the Action Plan for the Conservation of the National Insect. This phase marks an important milestone in a structured, transparent, and community-driven process aimed at safeguarding Malta’s endemic honey bee, Apis mellifera ruttneri.

Following the completion of Phase 1, which focused on establishing a clear statement of intent and gathering community input, the Foundation has now prepared the first draft of the Action Plan. This document is the result of extensive groundwork, informed by public consultation, ongoing conservation work, and the Foundation’s statutory mission to protect Malta’s National Insect.

Official logo of the National Insect Conservation Action Plan launched by the Foundation

From Consultation to Action

Phase 2 represents the transition from intent to implementation. Building on the feedback received during the initial consultation, the Foundation has consolidated its vision, principles, and ongoing initiatives into a structured Action Plan that will guide its work over a three-year period (2026–2028). This timeframe corresponds to the Foundation’s statutory term and reflects a realistic, focused approach to conservation within its voluntary and non-governmental capacity.

The draft Action Plan outlines:

Clear aims, objectives, goals, and intended outcomes
A structured action timeline covering short-, medium-, and long-term measures within a three-year framework
Defined milestones to monitor progress and accountability
A consolidation of past and ongoing initiatives, including awareness campaigns, educational projects, heritage protection measures, and research efforts related to the Maltese Honey Bee

Rather than starting from zero, the Plan builds upon the substantial work already carried out by the Foundation during its first term (2023-2025), ensuring continuity, coherence, and long-term vision.

A Living Document Open to Feedback

In keeping with the Foundation’s commitment to transparency and participation, the draft Action Plan is now being released for public review and feedback. This second consultation phase allows individuals, organisations, beekeepers, researchers, and other stakeholders to reflect on the proposed actions and contribute constructive input before the Plan is finalised.

The Foundation firmly believes that effective conservation must be informed not only by science and policy, but also by the collective knowledge, experience, and values of the wider community. This consultation ensures that the Action Plan remains grounded, inclusive, and representative of a shared responsibility to protect Malta’s endemic honey bee.

How to Participate

The draft Action Plan is available as an attachment for review. Feedback, comments, and recommendations are welcome and may be submitted via email to: info@maltesehoneybee.org

The consultation period will close on 20th February 2026. All contributions received during this phase will be carefully considered and will help refine the final version of the Action Plan prior to its publication.

Looking Ahead

Phase 2 is a pivotal step in a longer journey. Once this consultation concludes, the Foundation will move towards finalising and publishing the Action Plan, which will serve as a guiding framework for conservation actions, advocacy, and collaboration in the years ahead.

Protecting the Maltese Honey Bee is not only an environmental necessity, but a cultural and national responsibility. Through this phased and participatory approach, the Foundation continues to work towards a future where Malta’s National Insect is preserved, protected, and celebrated for generations to come.