The Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Environment stressed on São Jorge the relevance of marking the World Earth Day and the National Day of Geological Heritage, which are celebrated today, emphasising the "importance of safeguarding the geological heritage in the sustainable development of the Region."

 "Geology determines the character of the territory and of the islands, creating microclimates and a diversified landscape. Geodiversity is present throughout the archipelago and also here on the island of São Jorge, where the existence of "fajãs" and their use are one of the most important examples of the relation between Human Beings and Nature and the sustainable use of geological heritage," said Luís Neto Viveiros.

 The Regional Secretary spoke on the sidelines of a visit to Fajã dos Vimes, which is one of the main areas comprised by the proposal for the application of "fajãs" of São Jorge to UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

 Luís Neto Viveiros visited the local coffee product and the traditional manufacture of quilts on looms. He also had the opportunity to exchange views with the Association of Friends of Fajã dos Vimes.

 According to the Regional Secretary, the rich and vast geodiversity of the archipelago and its important geological heritage are a unique testimony of the Earth's geological history that should be preserved for future generations.

 In this regard, the government official emphasised the importance of the Azores Geopark, which is unique in the world for being an archipelago. It comprises 120 places of special geological interest - the geosites - spread across the archipelago and also marine areas.
 The Regional Secretary also recalled that SIARAM Portal -Feeling and Interpreting the Azores Environment features new contents, including a documentary titled as "Fajãs do Tempo" (Fajãs of Time) that depicts the relevance of these places nowadays.

 This work aims to know better the "fajãs" of São Jorge and their way of life, thus contributing to a better understanding of the meaning of sustainability. This is particularly important at a time when the preparation of their application to UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is currently ongoing.

 The Azores Geopark joined the Island Natural Parks and "Ecotecas" (Environmental Awareness Raising Centre) in the development of an activity programme to celebrate the World Earth Day that run during this week. It includes the presentation of a Children's Guide to the Azores Rocks on the islands of São Miguel, Pico, Faial and Terceira.

 Published by the Geopark in partnership with the Network of "Ecotecas," this book follows the Children's Guide to the Azores Volcanoes that was previously published. It is also an important tool for the promotion of education for geodiversity. This initiative falls within a wider strategy of environmental education and sustainable development that is being developed by the Regional Secretariat for Agriculture, through the Regional Directorate for the Environment.