Restoration work at Armier is strengthening one of Malta's sensitive coastal habitats, with around 400 indigenous plants introduced as part of continuing work on the area's sand dunes.
The Environment and Resources Authority says the planting includes Sea Daffodil, Sand Couch Grass and Sea Medick, together with other species characteristic of dune environments. Sand and Posidonia material have also been added to replenish the dune, while cordons and information signs are being used to protect the restoration area.
Why Malta's dunes matter
Sand dunes are living coastal systems rather than simply accumulations of sand. Their specialised vegetation helps stabilise exposed ground and provides habitat for plants and animals able to cope with salt spray, drought, wind and intense summer temperatures.
Because dune vegetation is adapted to a narrow set of conditions, repeated trampling and disturbance can have an outsized effect on relatively small sites. Allowing native plants to establish is therefore an important part of restoring the wider habitat.
Invasive plants are also being removed
ERA reports that Giant Reed, Hottentot Fig, Cape Sorrel and Acacia have been removed as part of the project. Further work will include additional invasive-plant control, more indigenous planting, fencing and information signs.
Restoration is not completed when new plants are put into the ground. Continued monitoring is important because invasive plants can recolonise disturbed areas and young native vegetation remains vulnerable while it becomes established.
Visitors have a role
People using the Armier coastline can help by respecting cordons, avoiding trampling vegetation and leaving natural beach material undisturbed in restoration areas.
The work provides a useful reminder that Malta's coastal habitats can recover when physical disturbance is reduced and practical ecological management continues over time.
Source
Environment and Resources Authority — Restoring the sand dunes at Armier, 20 August 2026