The Macaronesia region has celebrated a major achievement in biodiversity conservation, with seven projects securing funding through the European Union’s BESTLIFE2030 Programme. This initiative, part of a €5.57 million boost to support the EU’s Outermost Regions and Overseas Territories, aims to safeguard fragile ecosystems by promoting targeted local conservation efforts.
The approved projects span across the Canary Islands, Madeira, and the Azores, addressing key environmental challenges that threaten the region’s unique biodiversity. From protecting endangered species like the Tenerife Giant Lizard and the Madeira Bat to the recovery of marine and stream ecosystems, these initiatives represent a crucial step towards ensuring a sustainable future for Macaronesia’s rich natural heritage.
In the Canary Islands, the Conservation Strategies for Sharks and Rays project seeks to develop protective measures for these species, promoting public awareness and stakeholder collaboration. Meanwhile, DEFCON-TGL focuses on saving the critically endangered Tenerife Giant Lizard by tackling the issue of invasive species, ensuring the survival of this iconic reptile.
Madeira has received four of the approved projects, including the MARVEL initiative, which focuses on the conservation of marine vertebrates, and MAC Puffinus LIFE2030, aimed at protecting the Manx Shearwater from terrestrial threats. The SOS BATS@MAC project, spanning Madeira, the Azores, and the Canary Islands, will work to conserve the endangered Madeira Bat, while STOP Predators targets the reduction of invasive predators affecting seabird populations.
In the Azores, the Stream Ecosystem Recovery Using Potential Sentinel Species Cardamine Caldeirarum project will focus on restoring freshwater ecosystems, using genetic tools to assess and mitigate threats.
These projects not only protect biodiversity but also ensure the participation of local communities, encouraging them to take ownership of the conservation efforts while promoting economic and social development. As James Hardcastle, Head of the Protected and Conserved Areas Team, highlighted, these initiatives are about more than conservation: they are about empowering communities to thrive alongside nature.
This marks an exciting chapter for Macaronesia as it takes decisive action to preserve its unique ecosystems for future generations. The next call for proposals is expected in early 2025, offering further opportunities for local communities to contribute to global conservation efforts.
For more information or to get involved in preserving the biodiversity of the EU Overseas, contact bestlife2030@consulta-europa.com.