A note from the editor Vanessa Byrne / Managing Director
A Happy New Year to you all .
The start of the year again , how quickly time is going by … but how beautiful to see all that ’ s around us . Family , friends , and all of life ’ s blessings growing , feeling and sharing what ’ s around us . Life is indeed beautiful .
As 2022 ends and into 2023 , I feel a sense of relief with the progress we have achieved in just one short year . Perhaps I am being a bit too optimistic but I do feel the world in general is much more environmentally aware , in fact more than ever before . A great example is the incredible achievements and innovative ideas shared at the Earth Shot Awards in November with such an increase in sustainable options available and so many people working hard to help our natural world . Gives a sense of hope for our children .
At OTWO we ended the year in such a great way . Back in February 2022 we were asked to apply for The Energy Globe Awards . These awards are one of today ’ s most prestigious environmental awards . It is awarded annually to projects saving our environment by personal action , sustainable projects , or campaigns for raising awareness in sustainability .
We submitted and application showcasing our collaboration with COAMBA and joint venture with Motricity . We gave our vision and dedication towards helping Gibraltar focus on sustainable transport . Providing a support system for cyclists and helping to improve the infrastructure locally to include cycle lanes . With this application we are so honored to announce that we have been awarded National Champions status for Gibraltar .
For 2023 we have many plans . Most of you will have seen the two buses circling Gibraltar promoting sustainable transport – we plan to have this as an annual promotion . We feel that this is important to educate our drivers to help support an increase in cyclist to alleviate the amount of traffic congestion we have locally . We had an incredible support in 2022 with a total amount of 50 companies joining us in this promotion . A brilliant example of self-help , local companies coming together for the betterment of our working and living environment . A beacon for the way forward . Sure , we need the support of Government to lead and encourage this but not all action is theirs to have . The cooperate sector in Gibraltar is showing that it is also worried and will take its own initiatives .
We also are already planning our annual Eco Festival . After last year ’ s success we are already well on our way to making it bigger and better . Conversations with local and international bands , stall holders and marquees to make this one of Gibraltar ’ s main annual events .
This year also , we are also organizing an extra event to give a special focus to World Environment Day 2023 as part of our Green week initiative . This will be a held in a central location for all to access and enjoy . More to follow shortly but if you want to get involved , do not hesitate to contact the team .
Lots of exciting work to look forward to for 2023 – truly excited to see the opportunities that are unfolding . Grateful to you all as always for your constant support .
Wishing you all the healthiest , happiest , and most sustainable 2023 ahead .
Peace and Love to all .
OTWO 42 / JANUARY 2023 5