HSBC Malta Foundation and MOVE Malta Celebrate Milestone in Tree-Planting Initiative

The HSBC Malta Foundation, in partnership with MOVE Malta, is proud to announce the successful planting of 3,000 trees across the Maltese Islands – thanks to the collective efforts of individuals, schools, local councils, community groups and private companies who participated in the MOVE for Trees initiative.

Launched three years ago, MOVE for Trees encouraged people to walk, run or cycle in place of short car journeys, with every 50 CO₂ free kilometres recorded converted into one tree planted. In total, participants donated 196,000 kilometres, leading to the greening of locations such as MCAST, Marsaskala, Salini Park, Majjistral, and schoolyards across Malta.

Dr Paula Mamo, Deputy Chair of the HSBC Malta Foundation, commented: “This initiative shows the powerful change that can happen when sustainability meets community. At HSBC Malta, we’re proud to have supported MOVE for Trees from day one, an initiative that promotes healthier lifestyles while creating a lasting environmental impact. These 3,000 trees stand as a testament to what people can achieve when they come together with a shared purpose.”

The project placed a strong emphasis on sustainability and biodiversity. All trees were grown from seeds collected locally and included native species such as the Sandarac Gum Tree (Għargħar), Evergreen Oak (Ballut), and Pomegranate (Rummien). Their care and planting were supported by a wide network of dedicated individuals, from lecturers and students at MCAST to the volunteers behind the Grow 10 Trees project.

In Marsaskala, over 170 trees were planted thanks to the Marsaskala Residents Network, while companies launched internal campaigns to promote active commuting and wellbeing. Schools also incorporated the initiative into environmental education and mobility programmes.

While not all trees survived due to seasonal challenges, many have flourished, with some now bearing fruit. Maintenance plans and watering systems were implemented to support their long-term growth.

Cynthia Debono, Founder and Director of MOVE Malta, thanked HSBC Malta Foundation for its trust and continued backing: “This project was never just about planting trees; it was about planting hope. We may not sit under their shade ourselves, but future generations will. That’s the legacy MOVE for Trees leaves behind.”

MOVE for Trees not only transformed public spaces, it shifted mindsets, showing how collective action, one step at a time, can shape a greener, healthier future.