The Malta Ranger Unit (MRU) has initiated a fundraising campaign to secure €50,000 for expanding environmental protection operations. The organization presented its funding request to iGEN on 23 June 2023, aiming to enhance equipment and recruit additional personnel.
Operational Focus and Legal Support
Established as a non-governmental organization in July 2023, the MRU operates independently to address the gap between reporting environmental violations and their prosecution. The unit evolved from the Majjistral Park Rangers, which previously held a mandate to safeguard national parks for the Heritage Parks Federation. Current operations target illegal littering, unauthorized construction in protected zones, vehicle pollution, and illegal fishing.The fundraising period runs from 28 July to 28 August. Two rangers will undertake an 800 km sponsored walk across Spain following the Camino de Santiago route. The collected funds are designated for equipment upgrades and the employment of new rangers.
Additionally, the participants are documenting the journey in a book highlighting the relationship between nature and mental well-being.
Cami Appelgren, the MRU founder, described the role of a ranger as a citizen prepared to serve as an effective witness in court to assist executive police with prosecution. The organization relies entirely on public and business donations, with voluntary work forming a core component of its structure.