Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1532058
maltatoday | SUNDAY • 2 FEBRUARY 2025 7 COMMERCIAL PA LEOSIM Project concludes w ith groundbreak ing insights ESPLORA Interactive Science Centre recently hosted a spe- cial event marking the con- clusion of the PALEOSIM re- search project. The event also featured the launch of an en- gaging science show and a sem- inar presenting the project's findings. PALEOSIM was a pioneering research initiative focused on investigating the impacts of cli- mate change on the habitats of arthropods, particularly insects, on small islands. These crea- tures, essential to ecosystems as pollinators, decomposers, and more, have been severe- ly affected by human-induced changes, such as habitat de- struction and climate change. The effects were especially dev- astating on small islands, which typically have limited resources and unique ecosystems. Using advanced climate sim- ulations of the Mediterranean, PALEOSIM uncovered how the climate has changed over the past 21,000 years, providing valuable insights into the ef- fects of these changes on pres- ent and future ecosystems. In collaboration with expert Sci- ence Communicators at Esplo- ra, the project's findings were transformed into a captivating science show, which was incor- porated into Esplora's Educa- tional Programme for the com- ing years. Dr James Ciarlo led the PALEOSIM research pro- ject in collaboration with Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP) in Trieste (under United Nations Educational Scientific and Cul- tural Organization) and Esplora (under Ministry for Education, Sport, Youth, Research and In- novation). In 2022, Dr Ciarlo, a climate scientist specializing in regional climate models, joined the University of Malta's Insti- tute of Earth Systems after re- ceiving the prestigious Marie Sklodowska Curie Postdoctoral Fellowship Grant from Hori- zon Europe to lead the initia- tive. Over the final six months of the project, Dr Ciarlo spent his time on secondment at Esplora Interactive Science Centre, focusing on engaging the public and children in the dissemination of the project's results, and fostering a broad- er understanding of climate change and its effects on biodi- versity. Opening the press con- ference, Esplora Director Mr James Catania said that "The PALEOISM project exemplifies Esplora's commitment, within Xjenza Malta, to making cut- ting-edge research accessible to the public in an engaging and inclusive manner, fully aligned with our core mission." Prof. Ing. Simon Fabri, Pro-Rec- tor for Research & Knowledge Transfer at the University of Malta, remarked that "PALEO- SIM is a very good example of the high calibre research that takes place at the University of Malta, contributing to the scientific understanding of the effects of climate change at lo- cal and regional levels, and pro- viding insights for the develop- ment of effective conservation strategies that also have global significance." During the seminar closing the press event, Dr James Ciar- lo said that "PALEOSIM brings ancient climates to life through simulations and art, offering the next generation a lens to appreciate the environment and tackle climate challenges." This event marked the suc- cessful conclusion of over two years of innovative research, of- fering valuable insights into the intersection of climate change, island ecosystems, and the con- servation of arthropods. For more information on the event and details about the PALEOSIM project, please visit Esplora's website www.esplora. org.mt The Zero Waste HoReCa Seed Funding Competition Awards 2024 announced THE Zero Waste HoReCa Seed Funding Competition Awards 2024 announced Twenty exceptional HoReCa (Hotels, Restaurants, and Cafés) businesses in Malta have been recognized for their innovative contributions to sustainability as part of the "Zero Waste Ho- ReCa - Seed Funding Competi- tion Awards 2024." Organized by the Cypriot NGO AKTI Project and Re- search Centre with the support of The Coca-Cola Foundation, the awards ceremony was held on January 29, 2025, at the Birgu Local Council. Empowering Green Innovation in Malta's Tourism Industry The competition highlights the role of sustainability in trans- forming Malta's tourism sector. The 20 winners received a €500 grant each to implement their proposals, which focus on in- troducing eco-friendly practices and infrastructure into their op- erations. Proposals were evaluated by an independent jury based on their environmental impact, sustain- ability performance, innovation, and social responsibility. The winners stood out among 170 members of the Zero Waste Ho- ReCa Network, the first of its kind in Malta, established with AKTI's scientific support to promote green development in the local tourism industry. Awarded Businesses The winners include: • Sotto Pinseria Romana (Sliema) • Prosciutteria (Gzira) • Dar Bjorn Cafeteria (Haz-Zebbug) • Hyatt Regency (St. Ju- lian's) • Eden Cinemas (St. Julian's) • Rusty Monkey (Hal Far) • Camilleri Group (Qormi) • Hammets Gastro Bar (Sliema) • Hangry's (St. Julian's) • Lulu Boutique Hotel (Zeb- bug) • Danny's (Qormi) • Cynergi Fitness and Café (St. Julian's) • Caviar and Bull (St. Ju- lian's) • Sole by Terragon (St. Ju- lian's) • Duke Boutique Hotel (Victoria, Gozo) • Café Du Brazil (Birgu) • St. Lawrence Community Centre (Birgu) • St. Lucija Community Centre (St. Lucia, Gozo) • Moods Bistro (Cospicua) The Birgu Local Council also received recognition for its ef- forts to engage the local com- munity in adopting sustaina- bility practices, showcasing a strong commitment to promot- ing environmental stewardship within Birgu.