Regional Director for Tourism says we are all responsible for preservation of Nature as the most important asset of the sector
The Regional Director for Tourism stated that the Azores are "renowned for their rich biodiversity," which makes the archipelago a "unique and valuable nature tourism destination." This awareness increases the level of responsibility of all, whether they be tour agents, researchers, residents or tourists, in actions "towards nature preservation, which are crucial for all."
Cíntia Martins spoke Tuesday at the opening session of the first edition of BioTalks - Environment and Science Week. On the occasion, she stressed that experts from various areas will have the opportunity over the next few days to share their knowledge and experiences in the context of tourism, scientific research and the conservation of natural resources associated with biodiversity. These matters are particularly relevant in the archipelago in view of the geomorphological specificities of the Azorean islands, whether on land or at sea."
For the Regional Director, "it only makes sense to defend a sustainable tourism that seeks to achieve a balanced situation and enable the sector to operate based on a long-term profitability criterion. It should not thrive at the expense of natural, cultural or ecological resources."
Cíntia Martins emphasised that both the public and private sectors are aware that "the wealth of a region is mainly based on its endogenous resources and the way it exploits them in terms of economic growth, tourism growth and protection of natural heritage should be compatible and complementary goals."
"Geodiversity, geological heritage and geosites, volcanic morphology are part of our landscape identity, being increasingly relevant in terms of tourism attractiveness. They have driven the development of geotourism, active tourism and adventure, always in close contact with Nature, which have led the Azores to become a favourite destination for those who love diving, whale watching, hiking, geotourism, birdwatching, volcanoes and much more," stated the government official.
BioTalks - Environment and Science Week is an initiative organised by Picos de Aventura. The Regional Director noted that this company "has always been careful to develop its activities for tourists while safeguarding this biodiversity, which values us as a tourist destination." In this context, she highlighted the awarding of the Azores Brand certification to the Picos de Aventura and, more recently, their distinction as Best Tourist Animation Company 2019 in Portugal; the latter was awarded by Publituris magazine.