Graciosa residents unite to preserve the island in a joint clean-up action

Sept. 17, 2025

On 16 September, Graciosa Island hosted a large-scale clean-up action, promoted by the Management Council of the Graciosa Island Biosphere Reserve. The event was coordinated by the Regional Secretariat for the Environment and Climate Action, with participation from all council entities and schools.
The initiative took place as part of the celebrations for the 18th anniversary of the Graciosa Island Biosphere Reserve, with teams from across the island getting involved. Each organisation focused its efforts on the areas under its responsibility, resulting in a significant amount of different types of waste being collected.
This joint effort, which resulted in the collection of around 1,100 kg of waste, highlighted the positive impact of collaboration between institutions and the community, reinforcing the commitment to preserving and enhancing Graciosa’s natural heritage. In addition to the significant amount of waste collected, the main highlight was the awareness raised about the importance of reducing waste production, promoting recycling and avoiding littering in public and coastal areas.
The Management Council of the Graciosa Island Biosphere Reserve appeals to the population: keeping the island clean depends on all of us. Small everyday gestures are essential to ensure a more sustainable future, such as reducing the use of disposable plastics, separating waste correctly or simply not littering the environment.
With this action, Graciosa Island reaffirms its role as an example of a territory committed to the defence of nature and invites all residents and visitors to be part of this ongoing mission: taking care of the island is taking care of home.