Arrábida's UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Status to Boost Economy and Tourism
The classification of the Arrábida region as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is expected to generate significant new economic and tourism opportunities, according to Francisco Jesus, the mayor of Sesimbra. The designation, which was formally approved last Saturday by the International Coordinating Council of the Man and the Biosphere program, covers a territory spanning the municipalities of Sesimbra, Setúbal, and Palmela. The successful candidacy was a joint effort by these municipalities, the Association of Municipalities of the Setúbal Region (AMRS), and the Institute for the Conservation of Nature and Forests (ICNF).
Mayor Jesus emphasized that the new status does not impose new restrictions but rather unlocks potential. 'This does not imply restriction; on the contrary, it opens up great opportunities for this entire fantastic territory,' he stated. The immediate impact, he noted, will be an enhanced international media profile, which is expected to attract greater interest from tourists and investors. This recognition of the area's unique natural value is seen as a critical step in its sustainable development.
The management of the new Biosphere Reserve will require a collaborative approach. The mayor highlighted the need for 'necessary sharing between public and private entities that have economic activities here.' He stressed that the entire community must be involved in the process, as the classification is poised to 'catapult the economy.' The benefits are anticipated to extend beyond nature tourism operators to the wider local economy. The next phase of implementation will involve the creation of dedicated working groups to develop strategies for various sectors.
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For the municipality of Sesimbra, the mayor foresees a substantial increase in tourism-related value. He pointed out that the region's identity is built on more than just its coastline. 'Sesimbra is not just sun and sea. We have unique characteristics through our local products, heritage, traditions, culture, and our own identity; all of this makes for a unique territory,' he affirmed. The UNESCO designation will serve to promote the area's 'natural heritage of sustainability, ecological values, and visitable ecosystems.'
This new status aligns with the region's Strategic Tourism Plan, which aims to diversify the tourism offerings of Sesimbra, Setúbal, and Palmela. The plan focuses on promoting a wide range of assets, including local gastronomy, rural experiences, traditional products, and built heritage. 'All of this must be valued, and now we have this great opportunity to be a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve,' Mayor Jesus concluded. The classification signals a new chapter for the Arrábida region, promising to enhance its appeal as a destination for sustainable investment and living. Discover eco-friendly properties and green developments at realestate-lisbon.com.