Azorean government to invest more than 1.5 million euros in social passes in 2023

In 2023, the Government of the Azores invested more than 1.5 million euros in implementing and expanding the free social pass in the region. This measure covered various sectors of the population, providing more accessible and easier access to public transport, thus contributing to more sustainable and inclusive mobility. This investment represents a significant commitment by the Regional Government of the Azores to meet the challenges of accessibility and social cohesion. With the expansion of the social pass, it is hoped not only to reduce road traffic and carbon emissions, but also to improve the quality of life of Azoreans, especially those who depend on public transport for their daily journeys. More information: HERE

Brussels approves Azores Transport Plan until 2030

The European Commission has approved the Azores Transport Plan until 2030. This plan, submitted by the region, includes an initial investment of 53 million euros for inter-island public service obligations, under Specific Objective RSO3.2. Financed by the European Regional Development Fund, the Azores 2030 Transport Plan aims to strengthen regional and local mobility, promoting a sustainable, climate change resilient and intermodal approach, as well as improving access to the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) and cross-border mobility. More information: HERE

Ponta Delgada introduces card-accessible eco-islands for waste collection

Ponta Delgada is getting a new sustainable look with the installation of accessible eco-islands. The municipality has begun a process of transitioning the waste collection model, which aims to gradually remove containers from the streets and replace them with these innovative eco-islands. These structures not only contribute to a cleaner, more organized aesthetic for the city, but also promote environmental awareness by facilitating selective waste collection through a card-accessible system for residents. Photo: Foto: CMPD/ Açoriano Oriental Source: Açoriano Oriental

Azores renew Quality Coast award

The Azores continue to establish themselves as a benchmark destination by renewing their Quality Coast award. This recognition, awarded by the European Coastal and Marine Union, highlights the excellence of the Azorean islands in terms of the sustainable management and preservation of their coastal areas. With their unique natural beauty and ongoing commitment to environmental conservation, the Azores reinforce their position as a tourist destination of excellence, providing authentic and responsible experiences for visitors looking to explore their stunning landscapes and diverse marine ecosystems. Source: Regional Secretariat for Tourism, Mobility and Infrastructures

Navy organises coastal and underwater clean-up in solidarity

The Navy organised a coastal and underwater clean-up operation in the port of Vila Franca do Campo, in São Miguel. The initiative, carried out in partnership with various institutions, aimed to raise public awareness of the problem of marine litter. As a result of this action, the rubbish collected will be converted into a charitable donation that will revert to the Santa Casa da Misericórdia de Vila Franca do Campo, to be used in the “O Farol-E9G” social project, for children and young people aged 6 to 14 in Ponta Graça, as part of the ocean literacy educational programme. More information: Here Source: RTP

Azores are “Best Adventure Destination,” according to the World Travel Awards

The Azores were designated as the “Best Adventure Destination” in the world at the World Travel Awards ceremony held on December 1 in Dubai. This prestigious global acknowledgment highlights the excellence of the experiences provided by the Azores, which had previously secured the title of Best Adventure Destination in Europe consecutively in 2020, 2021, and 2022. Source: Ambitur

Azores receive ‘Silver Level IV’ in Sustainable Tourism Destination Certification

The Azores have solidified their position as a global leader in sustainable tourism by achieving the ‘Silver Level IV’ certification for “Sustainable Destination” from EarthCheck. This recognition is based on the rigorous sustainability criteria established by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), reinforcing the Azores as the only archipelagic destination in the world to attain such distinction. The ‘Silver Level IV’ certification signals a continued commitment to innovation and sustainable practices. The Azores remain dedicated to maintaining and surpassing these standards, working in collaboration with local and international stakeholders to ensure that tourism in the region is environmentally positive and beneficial for local communities. Source: Governo dos Açores

Local SDG Platform unites 80 Azorean organisations to promote sustainable development

On 17 January 2024, a landmark moment took place in the Azores, where 80 people representing the 9 islands and more than 50 different entities came together through the Local SDG Platform. This meeting was promoted by Sustainable Azores – Azores DMO, which aims to respond to one of the region’s biggest challenges: the collaborative identification, monitoring and follow-up of measures and good practices related to sustainable development. The initiative aims to create a “showcase” of sustainable projects and practices on all the islands, stimulated by the 19 municipalities and other local agents that are part of the Azores Green Teams. With the certification of the Azores as a sustainable destination and the Azores Sustainability Booklet, the Local SDG Platform becomes a central point for viewing progress and collaboration between the various entities. More information: Here Source: Sustainable Azores