NEW’S | Alonso Miguel marks 7th anniversary of Fajãs Biosphere Reserve of São Jorge Island
The Regional Secretary for the Environment and Climate Change, Alonso Miguel, attended an environmental education event on Monday, an initiative organised by the Environmental Awareness Activities Offer, as part of the 7th anniversary of the Fajãs Biosphere Reserve of São Jorge Island.
This initiative included the participation of a class of students from Velas Basic Education and Secondary School, who had the opportunity to take the ” São Jorge Island Geosites Route.” This route links Avenida da Conceição to Morro Grande de Velas, providing a better understanding of geological aspects and the interaction between human beings and the landscape, as well as the fauna and flora found in this area.
“The Biosphere Reserves, classified under the Man and Biosphere programme, established by UNESCO in 1971, are established on the basis of scientific parameters with the aim of protecting natural and cultural heritage, as well as developing sustainable management models that bring together local governments and societies,” stressed Alonso Miguel.
According to the Regional Secretary for the Environment and Climate Change, “the classification of the Fajãs of São Jorge Island as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2016 brought the well-deserved recognition for their unique environmental, heritage and cultural features, which can easily be observed in a perfect combination of Man and Nature.”
“This recognition has provided a greater impetus for the monitoring, research and protection of natural and cultural heritage, along with the promotion of sustainable development,” he added.
Alonso Miguel highlighted the Fajãs Biosphere Reserve Action Plan that is being implemented since 2020. It “aims to boost the Biosphere Reserve, complying with initiatives for the conservation, management and sustainable use of natural heritage, through best practices for the conservation of natural values, economic prosperity and community well-being, being common goals for the classification and recognition of Biosphere Reserves worldwide.”
The government official also pointed out the promotion and dissemination of sustainable development in the Azores Biosphere Reserves, “namely through the Azores Biosphere Label certification for local products and financial support for the maintenance of traditional vineyards and orchards.”
GRA/RÁDIOILHÉU
