A note from the editor Vanessa Byrne / Managing Director
Happy Autumn , everyone ! We ’ re excited to welcome you to our October edition . As the cooler months settle in , nostalgia fills the air . We bid farewell to summer ' s vibrant social scene and embrace cozy family films , healthy habits , holiday preparations , and a well-deserved slowdown . Each season brings its blessings , and we can ’ t wait to share what ’ s ahead !
This edition is packed with local and international news . The Anti-Wipe campaign is back , rallying support for the global ' Unblocktober ' initiative . With nearly 1,000 local participants committed to eco-friendly habits , Gibraltar is leading the charge . October promises exciting events , including giveaways , competitions , and school activities . Don ’ t miss our November feature on Wastage Products ' contributions to this important cause !
On September 25th , renowned gastronome Manuel J . Ruiz launched his book * Cocina Histórica Gaditana * in La Línea , celebrating his recent * Al Andalus 2024 * award for Best Gastronomic Critic of Andalusia . The event highlighted his commitment to preserving culinary traditions . We eagerly await more from this talented author ! Our creative director , Juanjo Trujillo , has also launched * Memories in Panels *, a comic series that highlights Spain ’ s historical memory , adapting the life of anti-Franco guerrilla fighter Tony Eme to engage younger generations with stories of those who fought for democracy .
Turning to international news , the WMO ' s September 2024 report reveals a growing climate crisis in Africa , with extreme weather causing annual GDP losses of up to 5 %. The WMO emphasizes the urgent need for global collaboration to assist Africa , which suffers disproportionately from climate change despite contributing little to emissions . In Brazil , fires ravaged nearly 20 % of Brasilia National Park amid the country ' s worst drought , presenting immense challenges for this critical biodiversity hotspot .
In an inspiring initiative , surfers and environmentalists in Latin America have launched a project combining their love for the ocean with marine conservation . Surf schools are educating participants on coastal protection while leading seaweed reforestation projects to restore damaged ecosystems . These stories set the stage for deeper explorations in our future editions , making October filled with essential topics !
In our " Culture in Green " section , we spotlight captivating books , podcasts , websites , films , and events designed to expand your environmental knowledge . This month , we feature the Uganda Environmental Conservationists Organization ( UECO ), a dedicated team of five combatting climate change . They engage the community through education , tree planting , and promoting sustainable agriculture . Their inspiring journey awaits you on page 38 !
Our regular collaborators , COAMBA , share their preliminary program and vision for their next conference on March 27th and 28th , 2025 . This gathering will unite professionals , academics , researchers , and students focused on environmental issues , fostering knowledge exchange and innovative solutions .
Travel enthusiast Anthony Pitlaluga shares his delightful experience in Ireland , leaving readers craving a hearty Irish stew as the cooler months approach ! We can ’ t wait for the second part next month — thank you for the delicious inspiration , Anthony !
In " The Memory of Hands ," Mercedes Versaci explores the spiritual significance of handprints in cave art . Through a ritual journey , she connects with ancestral spirits and emphasizes the enduring legacy of our ancestors through art . Discover this fascinating exploration along with nearby caves worth visiting !
Starting on page 80 , you ’ ll find regular features , including Owen ’ s article on " Reviving Urban Landscapes ," which highlights the importance of ecological restoration in cities . Key strategies such as rewilding and community engagement showcase successful initiatives from cities like Singapore and Berlin . Lastly , in honor of World Mental Health Day , Clubhouse Gibraltar is hosting an Open Door Celebration to promote healthy work environments . They offer essential tips for mental well-being , so join us to learn more ! Don ’ t forget to check out our EcoTraveller recommendations for day trips and experiences in nature .
As always , it ’ s a pleasure to share this month ’ s edition with you , and we ’ re grateful for your continued support .
Peace and love always !
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