This initiative is part of “Operação Montanha Verde”, a project focused on enhancing biodiversity and promoting the natural regeneration of soil in the Algarve, particularly crucial in the face of worsening drought conditions.

The “Operação Montanha Verde” project, inspired by the philosophy “Together We Protect”, was launched in 2017 and has since become an environmental force in the Algarve. Over the years, it has resulted in the planting of more than 126 million native trees, bolstering the region’s resilience against climate change.

This year, the initiative joined forces with Nativawaky to implement the Miyawaki method, an innovative approach to dense and biodiverse planting. By recreating native ecosystems with this technique, forests can achieve self-sufficiency within as little as three years.

Isabel Gaspar, Biologist and Conservation Coordinator at Zoomarine and Operação Montanha Verde, emphasised the collaborative power of the initiative: “Operação Montanha Verde exemplifies what we can achieve when we work together to protect the environment. With the creation of the Miyawaki forest in the Conceição-Faro area, we are tackling challenges such as drought and deforestation in the Algarve. Its inspiring to see the active involvement of children in this action, as only by educating new generations can we ensure a sustainable future for our region”.

Sónia Soares, Biologist and Founder of the Nativawaky project, highlighted the advantages of the method: “This approach not only allows us to plant trees but to create forests, which are dense, rich in biodiversity, and reflect the natural balance of the ecosystems they inhabit. We have planted species native to the Algarve’s landscape that belong to different forest strata, which support one another and encourage healthy growth. After approximately three years, these forests can thrive autonomously without the need for irrigation.”

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The 2024 edition of the Operação Montanha Verde saw around 60 volunteers come together to plant 330 trees and plants, representing over 30 native species. Among the participants were 42 fourth-grade students from two classes and volunteer groups from UALG. ALGAR, SA, a long-time strategic partner, contributed to the initiative’s success by providing NutriVerde, an organic compost that supports early plant growth and is certified for organic agriculture, reinforcing a commitment to long-term ecological practices.

Filomena Rosa, Founder and President of AIPAR, stressed the importance of this initiative for the children at Quinta do Meloal: “This is a dream come true! AIPAR provides social services for child and youth protection and for people with disabilities, and this green space aligns with our wish for these children and their families to connect with nature and nurture an appreciation for plants, which deserve our protection just as much as they do.”

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