Operation “Montanha Verde” is back, and Zoomarine could not be more excited about what will be the 8th edition of this environmental and civic initiative. In 2023, Zoomarine  offers, once again, thousands of trees, the majority of which will be planted at the University of Algarve – a long-standing technical and scientific partnership. This ecological initiative will be open to all interested participants on 25 and 27 November, and will take place in conjunction with the National Ecology Congress (www.speco.pt/22ene/22ene-programa).

Launched by Zoomarine in 2016, this drive to support the ecological balance of the Algarve has already provided several regional public entities – including Municipal Councils, the University of Algarve, schools and farming cooperatives – with more than 126,400 trees of 99 different species. Of these, 79,000 have already been planted in 25 locations, with the help of 8,230 volunteers.

The choice of species and respective quantities always depends on each partner. At the same time, Zoomarine ensures the purchase and delivery of the chosen specimens, insurance cover for volunteers, the necessary equipment (gloves, shovels, hoes, buckets), as well as some fruit and drinks. ALGAR SA, a strategic partner since the very first year, will once again produce and supply NutriVerde® compost, which will help the plants in their initial growth phase. This organic compost results from the treatment and composting of green waste generated by gardening and agricultural activities in the Algarve region and is certified for use in organic farming.

Those interested in “getting their hands in the soil” and helping to plant (on 25 and/or 27 November) are most welcome and should register.

Registration is free and open to student groups (ideally aged 10+), teachers, families, corporate teams, Scouts, Guides, and, of course, anyone who believes in protecting and strengthening our ecosystems. Advance registration helps manage the number of tools required and ensures that insurance and digital certificates of participation (for those who wish) can be provided.

The land on the Gambelas campus will be prepared in advance, so volunteers will only be asked to bring comfortable clothing, suitable footwear, some time (30 to 120 minutes) and a little physical effort. Planting will take place between 09:00 and 12:00 on both days.

Through this collective effort, Operation “Mountanha Verde” aims to once again show that civic engagement initiatives, carried out for the collective protection of the natural values of our Region, continue to make sense and remain urgent – such as reinforcing tree cover and promoting behavioural change.

It is also important to reinforce a message of hope and cooperative spirit among the Portuguese people, while underlining the urgent challenges posed by climate change.

Zoomarine hopes, naturally, to count once again on the return of its generous volunteers, whose invaluable support helps to make a difference – for a safer, cleaner, healthier, fairer and greener future.

Meanwhile, it is worth recalling an old saying: “If the air is bad, plant a tree. If it is getting too hot, plant a tree. If the soil is damaged, plant a tree. If there is too much wind, plant a tree. To protect our water, plant a tree. If there is a lack of food, plant a tree.” Because one should never underestimate the great power and benefits of a tree – and because Together, We Protect. And because together, it will be even more fun… Can we count on you?