A note from the editor Vanessa Byrne / Managing Director
Did summer fly by , or is it just me ? As we soaked up the sun , September ’ s return to routine and healthier habits feels refreshing . With the season ’ s shift , we ’ re excited to bring you an edition packed with international insights , local highlights , and a sprinkle of inspiration .
We kick off with international and local news shorts to keep you informed . Starting on page 12 , you ’ ll find :
Italy is stepping up to protect its stunning national parks from the crush of mass tourism . New regulations aim to balance visitor enjoyment with environmental preservation , ensuring future generations can continue to marvel at Italy ’ s natural beauty . Over in Sweden , the government is supercharging electric vehicle ( EV ) adoption with a plan to install over 10,000 fast-charging stations , part of Sweden ’ s goal to reach carbon neutrality by 2045 .
In Spain , Benigno Varillas is crowdfunding a historical novel to honor Félix Rodríguez de la Fuente ' s centenary , delving into his profound connection with wildlife . Meanwhile , the Great Green Wall Initiative continues to combat desertification in Africa ’ s Sahel region , with Senegal leading by planting millions of trees . And in South Africa , the shift to renewable energy is gaining momentum , with wind and solar projects set to add over 2,000 megawatts of green energy to the grid .
We ’ re thrilled to give you a first look at our new bus ad promoting sustainable transport — kicking off our 2024 / 2025 campaign with the “ Best by Bike ” promotion . This initiative encourages cycling as a healthier , greener alternative to driving and is supported by a coalition of 30 companies . Keep an eye out for upcoming campaigns like “ Walk the Rock ” and “ Bus for Us ,” all aimed at making Gibraltar ’ s 16km area more eco-friendly .
Our Culture in Green section this month is a treasure for the environmentally curious . Whether you ' re into books , podcasts , films , or events , we ’ ve got recommendations to fuel your passion for the planet . A standout is * The Climate Conversation * podcast , offering deep dives into pressing environmental issues .
As global temperatures break records , the need for climate action is clearer than ever . This month ’ s edition includes a visual feature on worldwide temperature averages , highlighting the urgent need for change . Check out page 24 for more .
We ’ re also excited to share insights on the # OT- WOChallenge with GBC Studios . This year , we ’ re combining sustainability with charity fundraising in a challenge that ’ s both fun and impactful . Even Minister Cortes has joined in , taking on the challenge of learning to cycle 50km before GBC ’ s Open Day — despite not knowing how to ride a bike ! Find out more on page 30 .
Earlier this year , our team visited Pontevedra , the car-free city that ’ s become a pedestrian paradise . We spoke with the city ’ s long-serving mayor , who shared insights into the challenges and triumphs of creating such a livable city . Inspired by this visit , I drew parallels between Pontevedra and Gibraltar . Both are similar in size , and both have the potential to prioritize people over cars . It might seem like a dream , but with fresh air , wide pavements , and a focus on pedestrians , it ’ s a dream that could become reality . Check out the article Livable Cities on page 34 .
Don ’ t miss Anthony Pitaluga ’ s third chapter of his Edinburgh adventure on page 57 . His reflections on this vibrant city are not to be missed . And for a historical journey , check out Juanlu Gonzalez ’ s feature on José Ortiz Echagüe , a pioneering photographer who captured the essence of Spain and North Africa .
As always , we wrap up with gratitude for our incredible community of supporters , readers , contributors , and family . To quote Mattie Stepanek , “ Unity is strength … when there is teamwork and collaboration , wonderful things can be achieved .”
Peace and love to all .
OTWO 62 / SEPTEMBER 2024 7