Electric vehicles keep supporting the social sector in the Azores

The Regional Secretary for Health and Social Security highlighted the importance of the ‘Generations on the Move’ program (GERMOV – PRR) by handing over five new electric vehicles to various charities. The vehicles were distributed to organizations such as Olhar Poente, Lar D. Pedro V, Grupo Social de Santo Agostinho, Santa Casa da Misericórdia de Angra do Heroísmo and Educação Primeiro – Associação de Apoio à Infância, benefiting the elderly, children and the distribution of meals. The total investment amounts to more than 200 thousand euros. GERMOV, funded by the PRR, has already acquired more than 60 electric vehicles, reinforcing its support for the IPSS and Misericórdias in the Azores and promoting social cohesion and inclusion in the region. Read more: HERE Source: Secretaria Regional da Saúde e Segurança Social

Azorean government reinforces its commitment to the blue economy and the preservation of the deep sea

The President of the Regional Government of the Azores reaffirmed the executive’s commitment to the valorization of marine resources and the development of the blue economy. During a visit to the Azores Sea School (EMA), he highlighted the creation of the Regional Sea Council and a Sea Forum, initiatives that aim to place the Azorean Sea at the center of regional, national and European priorities. He also emphasized the importance of promoting a sustainable blue economy that protects marine ecosystems, reiterating his opposition to seabed mining due to the high environmental risks and the lack of knowledge about the impact of these activities. Read more: HERE Source: Governo dos Açores

Plant production is vital for forest redevelopment in the Azores

The Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Food emphasized the importance of plant production by forest nurseries for the redevelopment of the Azorean Forest. With 18 nurseries and a capacity to produce five million plants, the Azorean cryptomeria stands out as the most cultivated species, due to its growth adapted to the region. The increase in the production of endemic species, essential for the recovery of ecosystems and for environmental projects such as LIFE, which are supported by the Forestry Services, was also emphasized. Read more: HERE

Young students displaced from their island of residence can now take advantage of the “Return Home” initiative

From 23 July, young Azorean students who have been displaced can apply for the “Return Home” initiative, which offers support for one round trip or two one-way flights between their island of residence and their place of study. Applications are open until 15 August on the website juventude.azores.gov.pt. Part of the “+ Young” package, this initiative is aimed at young people up to the age of 26 who attend level 4 to 8 courses away from their island of residence, promoting ties with the Azores and encouraging them to return after their training. More information is available at: https://juventude.azores.gov.pt/ Read more: HERE

Recycling rate to increase significantly in the Azores in 2023

The Regional Secretary for the Environment and Climate Action publicly presented the Regional Waste Information System report for 2023. It highlights the Region’s positive evolution in terms of waste prevention and management, the result of legislation, policies and investments by the Regional Government, as well as collaborative efforts between local councils, parish councils and waste operators, and the growing environmental awareness of Azorean society. The report reveals a growth of around 17% in recycling between 2021 and 2023, with the Preparedness for Reuse and Recycling Rate standing at 36.4% in 2023. Although still far from the 55% target for 2025, there has been a decrease in waste production and an increase in material and energy recovery. These results, which do not yet include the new treatment centres in São Miguel, reflect positive progress in waste management and a trend towards sustainable growth. Read more: HERE

Azorean government supports young people who commit to working in the archipelago

The Government of the Azores will grant between 2,000 and 8,000 euros to young people who commit to working in the archipelago for at least five years. The measure, whose regulations have been published in the Official Journal, is part of the ‘+ Jovem’ package, organized by the Regional Secretariat for Youth, Housing and Employment, and aims to attract and retain talent in the region. The amount of support varies according to academic level: 2,000 euros for bachelors, 5,000 euros for masters and 8,000 euros for doctors. Applications are now open and can be submitted via the website: empregojovem.azores.gov.pt Read more: HERE Source: Açoriano Oriental

6th Natural Fibres Festival

The Natural Fibres Festival returns to the Old Boiler Orchard of Lagoa das Furnas on 3 and 4 August 2024. This event is dedicated to the preservation, promotion and innovation of regional handicrafts that use natural fibres as their raw material. With workshops, exhibitions and talks, the festival promotes ecological practices and local crafts. It’s an opportunity to discover unique products and value the Azorean cultural heritage. Read more: HERE Fonte: Secretaria Regional do Ambiente e Ação Climática

Azores awarded “Best National Tourism Region” by Publituris

The Azores were honored as the “Best National Tourism Region” at the Publituris awards, reaffirming their prominent position on the Portuguese tourism scene. The Publituris Portugal Travel Awards 2024 took place in the city of Porto, in the presence of more than 400 people, and the prize awarded to the Azores was received by the Regional Director for Tourism, Rosa Costa. Read more: HERE Source: Governo Regional dos Açores