The Alter Aqua Project was born out of the urgent need to address Malta’s severe water scarcity while preserving its rich water-related cultural heritage. Malta is one of the most water-stressed countries in the world, with limited naturally occurring freshwater resources. The increasing demand for water, especially from the agricultural and tourism sectors, exacerbates the situation. Recognizing this challenge, Global Water Partnership – Mediterranean (GWP-Med) collaborated with the Energy and Water Agency of Malta to implement a sustainable and innovative solution through the Alter Aqua Project. The initiative aligns with GWP-Med’s mission to promote the sustainable use of Non-Conventional Water Resources (NCWR) to increase water availability while enhancing environmental and societal resilience.

One of the core aspects of the Alter Aqua Project is the preservation and revitalization of Malta’s historical underground rainwater harvesting reservoirs. These structures, dating back to ancient times, played a crucial role in securing water for communities. Over the years, however, many of these reservoirs fell into disrepair and were neglected. By restoring and reintegrating these reservoirs into modern water management systems, the project not only ensures water security but also safeguards a critical element of Malta’s cultural identity.

The impact of this initiative extends beyond water conservation. The project enhances public awareness and appreciation of the country’s water heritage by creating educational tools, such as the “Reservoir Trail” in the Cottonera area. Equipped with QR codes, the trail provides access to historical water structures, allowing visitors and locals to explore and learn about these hidden gems. By linking historical conservation with modern sustainability practices, the project fosters a deep connection between past and present, emphasizing the importance of sustainable water management for future generations.

Malta’s vulnerability to climate change is primarily reflected in its increased water scarcity due to rising temperatures and shifting rainfall patterns. The Alter Aqua Project directly addresses this challenge by rehabilitating and optimizing the use of Non-Conventional Water Resources. Specifically, by restoring over fifteen rainwater harvesting reservoirs, the project secures an additional 10,000 cubic meters of water per year for secondary uses. This reduces reliance on the limited groundwater supply and mitigates the effects of prolonged drought periods.

Moreover, the project promotes the integration of rainwater harvesting in urban settings, encouraging the use of sustainable water management solutions. By prolonging the lifespan of existing water assets, it supports Malta’s climate resilience strategies and contributes to long-term water security in the Mediterranean region.

The Alter Aqua Project operates through a multifaceted approach, combining technical, educational, and policy-driven interventions. Specifically:

• Technical Implementation
• Rehabilitation and maintenance of over 15 rainwater harvesting reservoirs.
• Collection and reuse of more than 10,000 cubic meters of water annually for secondary purposes.
• Development of the “Reservoir Trail” with 12 underground reservoirs in the Cottonera area.

• Educational and Awareness Initiatives
• Collaboration with the University of Malta and Il-Gibjun to develop the trail.
• Installation of QR codes for interactive learning experiences.
• Community engagement through educational programs on water conservation.

• Policy and Sustainability Actions
• Alignment with Malta’s Tourism Authority to integrate cultural heritage into sustainable tourism.
• Promotion of best practices in NCWR management across Mediterranean countries.

Through these concerted efforts, the Alter Aqua Project not only improves water availability but also reinforces the importance of sustainable resource management, ensuring that Malta’s water heritage continues to serve both present and future generations.