A note from the editor Vanessa Byrne / Managing Director
Welcome to our March edition . I hope 2023 is treating you well and busy making plans with family and friends to enjoy moments and experiences together .
This last month marked Nautilus ’ s 100th Beach clean-up . 100 !! They are certainly an inspiration to all for their dedication , commitment , and pure determination to keep our coastline in the state it deserves . I ’ m sure you will all agree that you share our upmost praise and gratitude for their efforts . Thank you and amazing work to the entire Nautilus Project team !
TNP also announced their 5 th consecutive Gibraltar Sustainable Awards in collaboration with the GFSB . If interested to enter check out the requirements on page 13 , following from four incredibly successful years I ’ m sure 2023 will be as successful if not even better .
On our DahabiTAt regular statistical feature , found on page 36 , we provide you with shocking stats showcasing the estimated market demand for plastic use . A staggering nearly 40 % of plastic demand is still coming from plastic packaging ! This proves that if we consciously reduce our plastic packaging purchases , we can make real change to this world . We can never underestimate the power of the consumer . If you ’ re interested in reducing your plastic dependency at home , EcoPassion always have great alternative options - check out their products at www . ecopassion . es .
This month we proudly present an interview with Minister Balban . This interview was purely focuses on the new Active Strategy initiative the Government has released earlier in the year . We got down and dirty with Minister Balban and ask many questions we have seen on the socials to provide you with clear answers . This will be the biggest change we will see in our road infrastructure in this decade . At OTWO magazine we are very positive about any change that will improve our health , environment and reduce our pollution . We do understand some of the concerns raised which is why we decided to ask these questions to Minister Balban . Check out the full interview on page 40 .
On page 62 of this month ’ s edition , you will find COAMBA ’ s ( Colegio de Ambientologos de Andalucia ) article on the importance between hedgerows , the environment and biodiversity . They explain how hedges help to form and stabilize the soil around them , offering protection against erosion . Their contribution to retaining and progressivley releasing water from rainfall and watercourses is already widely recognized . Hedgerow ’ s CO 2 retention capacity is estimated at several hundred kilos per kilometer , depending mainly on the age of the shrubs that make up the hedge . They also explain that one of the most beneficial aspects attributed to hedges is their ability to promote biodiversity . Must-read .
Anthony ’ s insight into Rome with his 3 rd Italian Experience article really makes me want to visit the area . The way he brings his experiences to life is great and gives a sense of reality to all his experiences which is both entertaining and endearing . Rome and its many historical monuments , myths , and cultures must be such a gorgeous place to visit . Check out Anthony ’ s article on page 90 and get a real taster .
Before I say goodbye for another month a must mention is that we are well underway with the preparations for our second edition of the Eco Festival ! We are also in conversation with the Government to provide another event earlier on this year . More info on this as the months roll on so watch this space … # cantwaitforsummer !
Hope you guys enjoy our OTWO as much as we enjoy creating it .
Peace and love to all always .
OTWO 44 / MARCH 2023 5