The opening session of the 3rd Portuguese Biosphere Reserves Festival, which was attended by the Regional Secretary for the Environment and Climate Action, Alonso Miguel, took place on Flores, with parallel events throughout the country.

The LIFE IP AZORES NATURA, LIFE BEETLES and LIFE IP CLIMAZ projects were part of the panel of speakers, presenting the work they have been carrying out on the Azorean islands classified as Biosphere Reserves.

Biosphere Reserves are territories distinguished by their ecological, cultural, economic, and social value, and they are characterised by the uniqueness and conservation of their natural heritage in conjunction with the well-being and enhancement of local communities.

In this context, LIFE projects are an essential management tool for nature conservation and for mitigating and adapting to the effects of climate change.

Early detection, eradication, and control of invasive species, the creation of ecological corridors, the planting of native flora, the promotion of biodiverse pastures, and green mobility are just some of the actions implemented by LIFE projects.