Breeds of Origin Conservancy

EU Legislative Interests

The Breeds of Origin Conservancy (BOC) focuses on conserving indigenous breeds, endemic species and subspecies, and local cultivated plant and tree varieties of the Maltese Islands, contributing to the EU’s biodiversity, environmental, and agricultural objectives. Accordingly, BOC’s work relates to the following EU policies and legislative proposals: 1) EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 – BOC contributes to the EU-wide effort to protect and restore ecosystems and native species, ensuring that Malta’s indigenous breeds and endemic species are preserved as part of Europe’s overall biodiversity targets. 2) Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) – BOC promotes the conservation of traditional Maltese breeds and plant varieties, aligning with CAP measures that support sustainable agriculture, preservation of local genetic resources, and biodiversity-friendly farming practices. 3) EU Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC) – BOC’s activities help safeguard endangered species, habitats, and endemic species found in Malta, supporting the objectives of this directive to maintain or restore natural habitats and species of community interest. 4) EU Birds Directive (2009/147/EC) – While primarily aimed at wild birds, the directive’s broader goals of protecting habitats and supporting species conservation align with BOC’s efforts to maintain healthy ecosystems where native Maltese species thrive. 5) EU Plant and Animal Genetic Resources Regulations – BOC actively engages in the conservation, sustainable use, and promotion of local breeds and plant varieties, contributing to EU initiatives on preserving genetic diversity for food security and cultural heritage. 6) Farm to Fork Strategy – BOC’s promotion of indigenous breeds and local plant varieties supports sustainable food systems, resilient agriculture, and the preservation of local biodiversity, consistent with the strategy’s objective of linking food production with environmental and societal benefits. 7) EU Nature Restoration Law (proposal) – BOC’s projects, including breeding programs, propagation, and conservation initiatives, contribute to the restoration of degraded ecosystems and safeguard endemic species and local genetic resources, aligning with the law’s goal of reversing biodiversity loss. Through research, awareness-raising, partnerships with national and international institutions, and advocacy, BOC seeks to influence the development and implementation of these EU policies, ensuring that Malta’s unique genetic resources, endemic species, and cultivated plant varieties are recognized, protected, and sustainably managed within the EU’s legislative and policy framework.

Communication Activities

Breeds of Origin Conservancy (BOC) conducts extensive communication and outreach activities to promote and support EU policies on biodiversity, sustainable agriculture, genetic resources, and nature restoration. These activities aim to raise awareness among policymakers, researchers, farmers, breeders, and the public about the importance of conserving indigenous Maltese breeds, endemic species, and local cultivated plant and tree varieties, in alignment with the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030, the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), the EU Habitats and Birds Directives, the Farm to Fork Strategy, and the proposed EU Nature Restoration Law. BOC has established a national conservation hub on a public property leased for 15 years in Marsaxlokk, Malta, serving as a central site for research, regeneration, and conservation of indigenous animals and plant varieties. The site functions as a living exhibition of Malta’s biodiversity and cultural heritage, integrating scientific research with traditional pastoral practices. The hub hosts workshops, educational visits, and training programs for students, breeders, farmers, and researchers, promoting EU-aligned conservation methods and sustainable agricultural practices. Events and workshops form a core component of BOC’s outreach. The organisation regularly participates in national and international conferences, seminars, and policy dialogues, presenting research findings and case studies that demonstrate the importance of conserving Malta’s indigenous breeds and plant varieties. These events facilitate knowledge exchange between local stakeholders and connect Maltese initiatives with EU objectives for habitat protection, sustainable agriculture, and the conservation of genetic resources. BOC undertakes public campaigns and awareness initiatives to inform citizens and stakeholders about the decline of indigenous breeds, endemic species, and local plant varieties. The “Inħarsu l‑Wirt Nazzjonali” (Safeguarding National Heritage) campaign raises awareness of the cultural and ecological value of Malta’s living heritage. Activities include social media engagement, public talks, school programs, and collaboration with local media, emphasizing the relevance of EU legislation and the need to safeguard Malta’s biodiversity. Social media outreach via the BOC Facebook page actively supports these objectives. The page disseminates updates on conservation projects, such as the Maltese goat and other indigenous livestock programs, highlighting both scientific results and cultural heritage aspects. Facebook posts include photo and video coverage of educational events, exhibitions, and breeding programs, allowing the public to follow developments, learn about endangered species, and engage with campaigns. The platform also communicates BOC’s collaborations with government entities and international partners, linking local actions to EU policy objectives. Publications and educational materials include newsletters, research summaries, policy briefs, position papers, and educational guides that translate EU legislation and strategies into actionable guidance for local stakeholders. These materials raise awareness of CAP biodiversity measures, the EU Biodiversity Strategy, the proposed Nature Restoration Law, and EU regulations on plant and animal genetic resources. They are disseminated to schools, universities, farmers, breeders, and authorities to support knowledge transfer and engagement. BOC also engages in policy advocacy and stakeholder dialogue, preparing briefings and recommendations for national and EU policymakers to promote the implementation of EU legislation. These activities ensure that Malta’s national biodiversity and agricultural policies reflect EU objectives, particularly regarding the preservation of indigenous breeds, endemic species, and local plant varieties.

Interests Represented

Does not represent commercial interests

Member Of

Currently we are not members of any organisations.

Organisation Members

N/A