A note from the editor Vanessa Byrne / Managing Director
May is here, and with it, the long-awaited promise of summer! After weeks of grey skies and rain, the sunshine feels like a long-lost friend. The recent wet months have done wonders for our natural surroundings, with flora and fauna bursting to life, a beautiful reminder of how deeply nature depends on all its elements.
One standout feature this month is a fascinating study by Tasmin Griffiths on the importance of preserving our wetlands. Often overlooked and degraded for agriculture or development, wetlands are powerful carbon sinks— more effective than forests. Tasmin, a PhD researcher at the University of Gibraltar, is currently investigating climate change impacts on dryland wetlands in Doñana National Park, Spain. Despite international protections, the park is under severe pressure from illegal water extraction and tourism. Her research, supported by initiatives like Blue Natura and the Wetlands in Drylands Network, underlines the urgent need for conservation, public awareness, and stronger enforcement.
In part three of his Berlin series, Anthony Pitaluga delves deeper into the city’ s World War II history. Guided by a tour guide, he explores poignant landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate, the Nazi Air Force Ministry, and the site of Hitler’ s former bunker. Anthony’ s reflections bring historical events to life and serve as a powerful lead-up to his visit to the Holocaust Memorial and Topography of Terror in next month’ s edition.
We’ re also proud to feature Sustainabuild’ s remarkable transformation of Gibraltar’ s Rock Hotel. Over the last ten years, the hotel has reduced its energy use by 30 %— with an 11 % drop in 2024 alone— through real-time monitoring and smart metering. A compelling example of how data-driven strategies can fuel sustainability.
COAMBA shares new research by Nazaret Keen Ruiz on Halimium atriplicifolium, a resilient plant spe- cies thriving in Málaga’ s peridotitic and non-peridotitic soils. The findings, which highlight adaptive traits such as seed weight and leaf size, point to the value of conserving unique ultramafic landscapes like Sierra Bermeja, especially in the face of climate change.
This month, La Marca Parque Natural celebrates Cádiz’ s fishing heritage— from ancient Phoenician tuna traps to modern sustainable canning practices. Companies like La Chanca and Conservera de Tarifa blend tradition with innovation, preserving both culture and marine biodiversity.
We also present an exclusive interview with Professor Carlos Moreno, the mind behind the“ 15-Minute City” concept. Already revolutionizing Paris, this urban model brings essential services within walking or cycling distance, helping communities reduce emissions, reclaim public spaces, and connect more closely with nature. It’ s a vision of cities built for people, not cars— don’ t miss it.
In this month’ s Nature’ s Way, we highlight how urban greening initiatives like wildflower meadows and green roofs are creating vital pollinator habitats. These efforts not only boost biodiversity but also support urban agriculture and community engagement.
Meanwhile, Clubhouse Minds tackles the pressing issue of mental health in Gibraltar. By encouraging open conversations and utilising our excellent local services, we can build a more resilient, compassionate community— one where no one feels alone.
Finally, we’ re excited to announce our annual EcoFestival at the end of this month! If you haven’ t already, make sure to grab your tickets— it’ s going to be an event to remember. Celebrating World Environment Day and World Bicycle Day with family-friendly activities, learning, and a strong sense of community, we can’ t wait to see you there!
As always, we are forever grateful for all your support, trust and collaboration.
Peace and love always x
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