Fajãs de São Jorge Biosphere Reserve Hosted the Event “Aldeia da Esperança” – Youth, Faith, and Action for the Planet

From July 21^th to 25^th, the Fajãs de São Jorge Biosphere Reserve hosted the event “Aldeia da Esperança” in the stunning Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo. Organized by the Diocese of Angra, through its Jubilee Coordinating Group, the São Jorge deanery, and the Diocesan Youth Service, and supported by the Portuguese Catholic Scouts (CNE), the initiative brought together around 300 young Catholics from various islands of the Azores.

Throughout the week, participants engaged in a variety of activities, including an environmental workshop led by the Environment and Climate Action Service of São Jorge Island. The sessions emphasized the significance of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve designation, noting that Portugal has 12 Biosphere Reserves, four of which are located in the Azores. The Portuguese Biosphere Reserves Youth Network was also presented, encouraging youth to get involved in future actions within their communities.

Environmental education was central to the event, with a strong focus on the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere (MaB) Programme, circular economy principles, daily waste and the importance of reducing consumption.

As a practical contribution to the conservation of the island’s natural heritage, the young participants carried out a coastal cleanup, divided into 15 sessions. Demonstrating teamwork and commitment, they collected approximately half a ton of waste, mostly plastics — including a large mooring rope from a ship.

This initiative served as an inspiring example of how faith, youth engagement, and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand, reinforcing the message that “unity is strength” and reflecting the resilience and commitment of the Azorean people to building a more sustainable future.