On May 11, the University of Évora and CIMAC (Intermunicipal Community of Alentejo Central), within the framework of the CARDIMED project, promoted another environmental education initiative at Caridade river stream, in Perolivas, in the municipality of Reguengos de Monsaraz.
The activity was part of the CARDIMED Open Air Exhibition Events to promote an intergenerational educational experience focused on the appreciation of riparian galleries and raising awareness about the importance of river ecosystems in climate change mitigation and adaptation.
Over the course of three sessions held between April and May, the initiative brought together the school community of Perolivas Primary School and the Association of Retired, Pensioners and Elderly People of Perolivas (ARPIP), encouraging the sharing of knowledge between different generations and strengthening the connection between natural heritage, collective memory, and traditional knowledge associated with Ribeira da Caridade.
During the sessions, the intergenerational group participated in a geobotanical walk along the stream, took part in native tree planting activities and collected plants for the creation of herbariums related to the traditional uses of plants. In the final session, an “Evidence Board” was also created using the herbariums, highlighting the connection between traditional uses, knowledge and the testimonies shared by the elderly participants about Caridade river stream.
The cycle of three sessions ended in a community open day held at Perolivas Primary School, where the work developed during the sessions was presented by participants. The CARDIMED Evidence Board is currently on display and open to the public at the Perolivas Association of Retirees, Pensioners, and Seniors, where the community is invited to visit and contribute with their memories, knowledge and stories related to the stream.
This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to promote environmental education integrated into climate adaptation strategies in the Central Alentejo region. Within this framework, under the CARDIMED project, CIMAC and the University of Évora are collaborating on the restoration of riparian vegetation in Mediterranean river ecosystems.
The success of this initiative reflects the commitment of the University of Évora on promoting environmental awareness initiatives that encourage the active involvement of the local community, with a special focus on younger generations.
