The third edition of the National Water Conference took place today, bringing together policymakers, academics, stakeholders, and professionals from across the water sector to focus on “Water Heritage in Malta”. The conference explored how historical knowledge and cultural practices related to water have shaped Malta’s identity and continue to inform national policy and long-term sustainability.
Organised by the Energy and Water Agency (EWA) with the support of the SD-Wishees project, the conference provided a platform to discuss both tangible and intangible water heritage in the Maltese Islands.
Dr. Miriam Dalli, Minister for the Environment, Energy and Public Cleanliness, highlighted the importance of recognising water heritage not only as a cultural asset but also as a strategic pillar supporting the Maltese Islands’ ongoing efforts towards a more sustainable, community-focused future.
“Malta’s water heritage reflects centuries of adaptation, innovation, and respect for a scarce resource. Safeguarding this legacy and learning from it remains essential as we strengthen our national water strategy and work to ensure a resilient and sustainable water system for future generations,” Minister Dalli said.
Chief Executive Officer of EWA, Inġ. Sandro Lauri, spoke about the personal and national value of Malta’s water history, emphasising how the country’s long-standing relationship with water has influenced everyday life, community practices, and national resilience. He noted that understanding this legacy helps place today’s water challenges into context and reinforces the importance of responsible and sustainable water management.
“Water has always shaped who we are as a nation. Long before modern technology, communities found ways to protect this resource. This heritage reminds us that sustainability is not new, and it continues to inspire and guide how we manage our water resources today,” Inġ. Lauri said.
During the conference, Dr Michael Schembri, Chief Policy Officer (Water) at EWA, outlined the Agency’s ongoing efforts to restore, document, and protect historic water infrastructure across the Maltese Islands, ensuring these assets are preserved not only as cultural landmarks but also as learning tools.
He explained that EWA plays a central role in linking heritage conservation with modern water policy by integrating historical knowledge into today’s planning and decision-making. He added that the Agency’s work goes beyond physical restoration to include education and public engagement, helping to connect past practices with present challenges and support resilient, forward-looking water governance for Malta.
The conference highlighted Malta’s tangible water heritage through expert presentations on groundwater springs, historic aqueducts, and industrial water infrastructure, showcasing the ingenuity and technical expertise that enabled past societies to effectively manage water scarcity and limited resources.
Intangible water heritage was also addressed through dedicated presentations on legends, place names, and proverbs associated with water use in Malta, underscoring water’s enduring influence on Maltese identity, cultural traditions, and collective memory.
Through this conference, EWA reaffirmed its commitment to the sustainable management of Malta’s water resources by providing a platform for collaboration, discussion, and the exchange of knowledge. The event also reflected the Agency’s ongoing efforts to link water heritage with environmental protection and long-term planning, supporting a resilient and sustainable water future for the Maltese Islands.
