An evaluation of the eco-Gozo vision : towards an eco-island status by 2020

Abstract

This dissertation aims to: evaluate the extent to which the Eco-Gozo Vision has so far been reached; report Gozo’s success accounts of sustainability achievements; identify possible gaps and barriers that would prevent Gozo from accomplishing its eco-island goals by 2020 and offer mitigation measures for these obstacles. Due to its small size, the impacts of development such as rising population, increased traffic, higher carbon dioxide levels and more tourists influx are felt more than larger countries. This is why Gozo needs to develop sustainably through the Eco-Gozo project. Similar to many small islands, most of Gozo’s issues related to sustainable development are mainly tourism, coastal resources and energy. To evaluate all these challenges, the project intended to interview policymakers responsible for the Eco-Gozo project to gather more information on how the project is implemented, as well as interview the locals to have their views through appropriate questionnaires. Results showed that tourism is a growing industry on the island and accountable for a significant portion of the island’s economy. Tourism, which has been identified as being responsible for much of the island’s environmental degradation, has caused the locals to become more environmentally concerned. Aside from making it a tourist hotspot, Gozo’s geographical position also allows it to have a high renewable energy potential; however, the island has yet to exploit its solar and wind resources to its benefit, as confirmed by the research carried out. While Gozo has undoubtedly improved since the beginning of the project, additional measures need to be implemented for it to be classified as an eco-island such as executing eco-tourism, better infrastructural planning, preservation of the island’s environment, language and cultural traditions.