The Government of the Azores has three ongoing construction and improvement works in the Network of Environmental Centres, an investment of about one million Euros, with the aim of diversifying the supply and respond to the increasing number of visitors, which grew 28% in the first half of 2015 compared to the same period of 2014.

"Overall, 21,500 visitors, mostly Portuguese and Nordic tourists, visited the Network of Environmental Centres of the Azores in these months, including the low season. In 2014, the number of visitors already exceeded 100,000 visitors," stated the Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Environment.

Luís Neto Viveiros spoke at the opening ceremony of the rehabilitation work of a traditional "atafona" (mill), which was attended by the President of the Government, Vasco Cordeiro. The Regional Secretary stressed that the Government of the Azores has decided to carry out new contract works due to "this significant increase in the number of visitors," which is also contributing to the sustainability of the operation of these centres with the increase in revenue."

In this regard, the Regional Government will launch other contract works for the rehabilitation of Porto Pim Whale Factory on Faial as well as for the construction of a support area at "Casa da Montanha" (Mountain House) and a car park which represent an estimated overall investment of 1.4 million Euros.

There are two ongoing works for the transformation of a typical warehouse into a vineyard culture exhibition area as well as the construction works of "Casa dos Fósseis" on Santa Maria and Pineapple Culture Interpretation Centre on São Miguel.

The Regional Secretary stressed that these centres "play an important role not only in the promotion of landscape and cultural values, but also in the promotion of tourism in the Region." In this regard, the government official added that they also "bring new business opportunities and contribute to the creation of jobs in the private sector."

Firstly, these centres include leisure and restaurant areas and improve the conditions for the provision of services, such as those provided mountain guides.

The Regional Secretary for Agriculture and the Environment also noted that more than 90 regional companies operating in the accommodation, restaurant and tourism leisure sectors have become partners of Natural Parks. Hence, "their products and services will benefit from promotional initiatives and the awarding of a seal of excellence recognition."
The recovery of the last 'atafona de canada' (a mill used to make flour) on the island of Corvo after being acquired by the Region, is another tourist attraction for those who wish to visit this island and its Environmental and Cultural Interpretation Centre.

"On an island classified as a Biosphere Reserve, the preservation of this object and the tribute to the harmony between human being and nature is of special significance, said Neto Viveiros at the ceremony held under the Government's statutory visit to Corvo Island.