In Portugal’s Biosphere Reserves, this plan can be translated into concrete actions to minimize localized pollution sources, with the aim of:
- protect natural ecosystems;
- improve the quality of life for local communities.
Its implementation can strengthen the sustainable management of these UNESCO territories, aligning regional efforts with European commitments.
Portugal has 12 Biosphere Reserves recognized by UNESCO, including insular, estuarine, and terrestrial areas, which harbor invaluable biodiversity and cultural traditions. However, pollution, especially plastic pollution, a recognized ubiquitous threat in various forms and sizes, poses a growing challenge to the integrity of these territories and remains under-assessed.