Ecomarb

BUSINESSES CAN HELP SAVE THE PLANET

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ECOMARB

“Sustainability is the new luxury” is the fitting motto of ECOMARB – a newly launched platform that is focused on research, environmental awareness and action with respect to recycling and reusing the residue generated by the city of Marbella. ECOMARB is the product of synergistic collaborations with individuals, private companies and public organisations which hopes to foster a circular economy and promote a sustainable lifestyle that respects human beings and the environment. Its founder, Esteban Ferrón Valdivieso, explains, “As a parent and entrepreneur, I couldn’t keep looking the other way. We have all got to work to face the challenges posed by climate change. This is the only way we can save our Planet and safe-keep our children’s future prosperity. To achieve our goals, everyone has to do their share – politicians, private business, society, and people just like you.”

THE CHALLENGES WE FACE

ECOMARB wishes to make numerous changes – including the reduction of energy and water wastage. Esteban says, “If you walk along the Istán dam, you will see that water reserves are at their minimum. Meanwhile, companies continue to construct buildings, open macro hotels and launch projects without regard for sustainability. We cannot continue to permit the indiscriminate use of water. I certainly don’t understand how avocado plantations are permitted. Did you know that in order to produce one kilogram of avocados, you need 1,000 litres of water? We need to be aware of unsustainable systems so we can start to make a change.”

SAYING GOODBYE TO THE LINEAR PRODUCTIVE SYSTEM

The linear productive system (produce, use, and throw away) is now an obsolete model. The buzzword in a bevvy of industries is the creation of a circular economy – one in which old or discarded items are recycled, reused, upcycled, or simply given to those who need them if they are still in good condition. Esteban elaborates, “In a touristic area like Marbella, we should take note of how resorts, hotels, and other types of accommodation use old mattresses, towels, robes, bedsheets, and the like. Where do hotels discard the surplus food from buffets, parties, and catered events?” Each and every individual, business, and government body should aim to meet the 17 objectives of sustainable development indicated by the United Nations. These are: » No poverty » Zero hunger » Good health and wellbeing » Quality education » Gender equality » Clean water and

sanitation » Affordable, clean energy » Decent work and economic growth » Industry, innovation, and infrastructure » Reduced inequalities » Sustainable cities and communities » Responsible consumption and production » Climate action » Life below water » Life on land » Peace, justice, and strong institutions » Partnerships for these goals

ECOMARB PLANS TO ACHIEVE ITS GOALS IN THREE PHASES:

Z Building awareness of the importance of crucial aspects such as climate change, recycling, solidarity, etc. Workshops will be offered for school-aged children on these topics. Z Action through the collaboration of people, businesses, and public institutions for waste recycling and the creation of a circular economy – one in which ‘waste’ is seen as a resource. Z The achievement of the UN’s 17 sustainability objectives so we can leave a better world for our children and for Marbella.

ECOMARB aims to convert Marbella into a city known for its respect for sustainability, recycling, and actively fighting climate change. Esteban dreams of a decent (perhaps even a good) future for our children and grandchildren. In the long term, of course, embracing environmental responsibility is a key way for Marbella to remain competitive at a time in which sustainable travel is arguably the strongest trend in the global tourism industry.

i www.ecomarb.com

PEOPLE CAN MAKE A CHANGE

There are threats to the environment that human action can revert, one of which is the behemoth that is microplastics pollution. Esteban elaborates, “Microplastics have been incorporated into food processes in major ways. Simply visit the beach or city centres and you will see vast amounts of waste – including plastic bags and packaging, glass, cans, and more. Over the past year and a half, thanks to the collaboration of the Cofradía de Pescadores (‘Brotherhood of Fishermen’) and Mares Circulares (‘Circular Seas’) project, over 2.5 tons of residues have been recovered from the sea bed.

bback to CONTENTS gourmet IN IT’S 35TH ANNIVERSARY YEAR, OUR VISIT TO LOS BANDIDOS PROVES THAT ITS REPUTATION FOR EXCELLENCE IS RICHLY DESERVED. READ ABOUT THE EFFECTS OF FOOD ON MOOD, AND FIND OUT ABOUT THE PIONEERING FEMALE LEGACY BEHIND PAZO DE SEÑORANS.

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