Management Plans for Island Natural Parks and Action Plans for Biosphere Reserves to be concluded in early 2018, says Marta Guerreiro
The Regional Secretary for Energy, Environment and Tourism ensured that the Azores will conclude their Management Plans for Island Natural Parks and Action Plans for Biosphere Reserves in early 2018.
Marta Guerreiro spoke at the end of the meeting of the National Committee of the Man & Biosphere Programme. On the occasion, stressing that 2017 is the International Year of Tourism for Sustainable Development. This year, the Regional Secretariat "moved forward with the procedures for the development of Management Plans for Island Natural Parks and the Action Plans for Biosphere Reserves."
Speaking to journalists, the Secretary for the Environment noted "the strong commitment of the Azores to the conservation and preservation of natural heritage and the implementation of a sustainability strategy."
Among the 11 Biosphere Reserves located in Portugal, there are four in the Azores, namely the islands of Graciosa and Corvo, classified in 2007, the island of Flores, classified in 2009, and the "Fajãs" of São Jorge Island, whose classification was approved in 2016.
The "Man & Biosphere" is a UNESCO's scientific programme created in 1971 to promote a balance between human societies and ecosystems that, according to Marta Guerreiro, must always defend "the conservation of biodiversity as its ultimate goal, not to mention the importance of the quality of life of the populations, integrated in a true strategy of sustainability."
The biannual meeting of the National MAB Committee was held on the island of Flores and was preceded by field visits to Flores and Corvo Biosphere Reserves. It discussed the proposals for the re-evaluation report on the Biosphere Reserves of Corvo and Graciosa as 10 years have passed since UNESCO distinguished them.
Marta Guerreiro also pointed out "the recruitment of another Nature Watcher for Flores Island and the first for Corvo Island" this month. This demonstrates the Regional Government's commitment to protect environmental heritage in the archipelago, along with the Natural Park Guide Courses. The courses will be held from the beginning of October on São Jorge, Graciosa and Terceira, and will reach Flores, Corvo and Santa Maria in early 2018.