30 Years of EEA Grants Cooperation: Environment Programme in the spotlight at commemorative event

30 Years of EEA Grants Cooperation: Environment Programme in the spotlight at commemorative event

The programme celebrating 30 years of EEA Grants in Portugal, held on 23 October at the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation, highlighted the importance of European cooperation and the impact of the projects funded on sustainable development and the resilience of Portuguese territory.

Among the various programmes represented, the Environment Programme was widely recognised for its significant contributions to sustainability and adaptation to climate change.

At the event, which was attended by official representatives from Portugal, Norway and Iceland, three outstanding projects from the Environment Programme were presented as examples of innovation and environmental commitment:

  1. Management of the Ceira River Basin in the Face of Climate Change - Focussed on adapting river ecosystems to climate change, this project aims to protect water resources and preserve biodiversity in the Ceira River basin.
  2. Biosphere Reserves: Sustainable Territories, Resilient Communities - With a focus on promoting sustainability in biosphere reserve areas, this project seeks to strengthen local communities and encourage sustainable land use practices.
  3. Oeste + Recicla - Aimed at the circular economy, this project promotes recycling and efficient waste management in the Western region, with a direct impact on waste reduction and environmental awareness.
  4. During the event, the results obtained by the projects and future challenges were discussed, with a critical analysis of the lasting impacts of the EEA Grants mechanism in Portugal.

The event reaffirmed the crucial role of the Environment Programme in promoting sustainability in Portugal and the concrete results achieved so far. The dedication of the projects, combined with the strategic support of the EEA Grants, promises to continue to generate a positive impact and strengthen Portugal's ability to adapt to future environmental challenges.