A note from the editor Vanessa Byrne / Managing Director
After months of grey skies and relentless rain, spring has finally arrived, and with it, a sense of renewal we’ ve all been craving. There’ s something uplifting about longer days, warmer air, and that first glimpse of sunshine breaking through. It reminds us that change is always possible, and that warmer days lie ahead.
This season’ s edition of OTWO captures that energy. It’ s a celebration of fresh perspectives, inspiring stories, and the collective steps that are shaping a more sustainable future. We begin with a curated selection of must-read films, books, events, and digital platforms, all designed to spark curiosity and guide you through the ever-evolving environmental conversation.
At the heart of this edition is one of the most anticipated moments in our calendar: Eco Festival Gibraltar( page 16). Now celebrating its 5th anniversary, this year’ s festival promises to be the biggest yet, spanning three vibrant days from 15th – 17th May. Under the theme“ Together for Tomorrow,” it brings together everything we stand for community, creativity, and conscious living. From the Pre-Loved Fashion Show to workshops, live music, and family-friendly experiences, Eco Festival continues to prove that sustainability can be engaging, inclusive, and, as we proudly say, EcoFun.
That spirit of transformation is also reflected in everyday life. In our feature on sustainable commuting( page 22), Gibraltar’ s shift toward walking, cycling, and greener transport highlights how daily choices are reshaping our urban landscape. Meanwhile, Urban Oasis( page 30) shows how communities across Europe, and now Gibraltar, are reclaiming spaces through small-scale greening, proving that meaningful change can begin right outside our homes.
Nature itself is responding. In our rewilding story( page 38), the return of species like the red fox and Hermann’ s tortoise marks a powerful step toward restoring Gibraltar’ s natural balance, reconnecting us with the Rock’ s wild identity.
Beyond Gibraltar, this edition invites reflection and discovery. From the cultural layers of Berlin in our travel series( page 48) to the hidden architectural treasure uncovered in El Puerto de Santa María( page 70), we are reminded that some of the most extraordinary stories remain quietly waiting to be rediscovered.
Closer to home, Guardians of the Strait( page 62) highlights the fragile existence of the Iberian orca and the urgent need to protect our shared marine heritage, an important reminder of the deep connection between nature, culture, and community. And along the Andalusian coastline( page 78), we explore a quieter, more authentic side of travel, where nature takes centre stage and offers space to reconnect and reflect.
Yet, amid these stories of hope, we must also confront a harsher reality. In The Silent War Against the Planet’ s Defenders( page 84), we shine a light on the growing number of environmental defenders who have lost their lives protecting our natural world. It is a sobering and essential read, one that reminds us that behind progress are individuals who have paid the ultimate price to safeguard the planet we all depend on.
As we continue to amplify these voices and stories, we are also proud to launch a new season of OTWOPod: Building Greener Businesses, starting on 10th April. This season brings together local companies and organisations who are leading the way in sustainability, sharing how they are adapting policies, innovating, and growing responsibly in today’ s changing world. It is an inspiring series that highlights the power of business as a force for positive environmental change.
Together, these stories form a shared narrative of hope, progress, and responsibility. They show us that sustainability is not a distant goal, but something already unfolding in our communities, our choices, and our connection to the world around us.
Peace and love always
OTWO 75 / SPRING 2026 7