Biosphere for Maio

A recent report has identified the island of Maio as having the necessary conditions to be considered as part of the UNESCO Biosphere. Biosphere reserves are ‘areas comprising terrestrial, marine and coastal ecosystems’.

Consultants identified Maio as having the potential to be an excellent reserve, given its size and the quality of the natural environment as well as being part of Macaronesia (islands in the North Atlantic, belonging to Portugal, Spain and Cape Verde). It is hoped that the formalities will be submitted to UNESCO by September and then the proposal is considered with a decision due in July 2019. Some aspects may not be completed in time for that deadline and may have to be considered for next year. Submissions always have to be made by September.

Designating the island of Maio in this way could bring some advantages for the island, including recognition world wide, and it will bring to the island organisations and individuals interested in research. It will also provide support in the management of the natural resources on the island.