Each year, a significant amount of waste is released into the oceans, resulting in the pollution of beaches. The main factors which contribute to the problem are unsustainable production and consumption patterns, as well as inadequate waste management strategies.

MAR Shopping Algarve has played a crucial role in promoting environmental awareness, and contributing to the preservation of marine ecosystems and a healthier environment in local communities.

Considering the importance of preserving the Algarve’s Natural Heritage, the shopping center has organised the 6th edition of the “Beach Clean-Up” initiative, which will take place on April 10, from 9am to 12.30pm.

The project, with five previous editions, executed with the support of various organisations, including government authorities and private companies such as IKEA and the European Recycling Platform, has already demonstrated a positive impact on the community, with the active participation of 322 volunteers, as well as the involvement of 20 partners.

In total, 21,680kg of waste have been collected, a shared effort that resulted in an average recycling rate of 56 percent. This year, the partner entities for the initiative are the Loulé City Council, the Algarve Tourism Region, IKEA, Designer Outlet Algarve, the Portuguese Environment Agency, the Quarteira Parish Council, Águas do Algarve, ALGAR, the Algarve Science Center, the Algarve Oncological Association and ARA – Animal Rescue Algarve.

“Our meeting place integrates sustainability throughout its operation. With the “Beach Clean-Up” initiative, we not only aim to preserve our natural heritage but also raise awareness and educate the community about the importance of environmental protection, thus reinforcing our commitment to a more ecological and healthier future for everyone”, explained Ana Antunes, general director of MAR Shopping Algarve.


This initiative will also include several creative ateliers and workshops, which will take place during the European Climate Week, from May 13 to May 19, with the objective of using the waste collected during beach cleaning and transforming it into artistic pieces that will later be displayed at the meeting place.


The continuity of the project is crucial to reinforce the local community’s commitment to preserving the ecosystem and motivating the adoption of more sustainable practices.


Within the scope of this project, MAR Shopping Algarve also supports the “Water is Life” Campaign, promoted by the Águas de Portugal Group (AdP), the Portuguese Environment Agency (APA), and the Water and Waste Services Regulatory Entity (ERSAR), which intends to raise awareness about reducing water consumption and promote practices that encourage efficient use, a discussion about environmental solutions, environmental education and community awareness.

Credits: Supplied Image;

With all these initiatives, the municipality of Loulé aims to meet the requirements related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations 2030 Agenda. By highlighting the importance of collective action and awareness to mitigate the impacts of climate change, aligning directly with SDG 13 – Climate Action, SDG 6 – Drinking Water, Sanitation and SDG 14 – Protection of Marine Life, the municipality emphasises the necessity to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources, calling for the prevention and reduction of marine pollution of all types, in particular from terrestrial activities, in order to protect ecosystems and biodiversity for a more sustainable future.


Participation in the 6th edition of the “Beach Clean-Up” is free, and you can join directly at the event location. Volunteers will receive a participation kit which includes a reusable bag, gloves, t-shirt, and rubbish bags, among others.