Lagos Mais Verde is a nonpartisan movement founded by dedicated citizens who believe in the importance of incorporating more green spaces into urban life in Lagos. This initiative aims to transform the city into a greener, healthier, and more inclusive environment, providing natural spaces that are accessible to all ages.
At the forefront of this vision is Joana Reis Correia, a psychologist who teaches adults in Portimão and Lagos. Disturbed by the lack of communal open spaces in the city and the prevalence of new buildings driven by financial gain, she recognised the critical importance of green areas for both adults and children living in the town. “I always described my town as a paradise, and we want to contribute so that it remains a paradise for the whole community.”
Seeking like-minded individuals, she connected with Delfina Barroca and Walter Ludwick. They are the founders of the Mud Valley Institute, which has been supporting eco-social regeneration efforts in southwestern Portugal for over a decade and they believed in her vision. Together with other members, Bruno Silva, Ana Reis, Ana Ribeiro, Rute Saraiva, Laura Green, and Carla Sousa, they founded the Lagos Mais Verde movement.
While the local council is open to the prospect of creating a park, Joana and the movement aspire to something more profound. “We envision this space as more than just a garden,” she states passionately. “Nature is our foundation, and trees can grow here with respect, but with this green park, we also will have a space for education, a place to play, and for social interaction.” They aim to create a resource for every school in the city, allowing teachers to conduct outdoor lessons and learning activities in an inspiring natural setting.
In addition to the commitment to education, the group is also concerned about regeneration, ecological sustainability and water shortages. A team of designers, agents of ecological and regenerative change, educators, professors, business professionals, and tourism experts have come together with a common purpose. “Our plan includes several features: a mini Miyawaki urban forest with walking trails, a community picnic area, a dog-friendly zone, and a children’s playground,” she explains. The site will focus on ecological water management, incorporating indigenous plant species and biodiversity. With plans for a Mediterranean section requiring less water and a lake, the fertile soil – historically nourished by the Bensafrim River – will provide an ideal location for this urban forest.
In May, they presented their vision to the town, receiving an overwhelmingly positive response from the community. “When we put up posters, people approach us expressing their support. We feel we are amplifying the community’s voice,” Joana adds.
As their goal is to reflect the community’s will and inspire the city hall to embrace the project, the group has launched an online petition that has already gathered over 1,100 signatures. If you share this vision and desire for a greener Lagos, please consider signing the petition on the website link below.
Join the movement “Lagos Mais Verde” in making Lagos a greener, more vibrant community for all!
www.lagosmaisverde.org/english
