CESAM – the Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies has officially signed the Milfontes Manifesto, a collective call for the protection, monitoring and restoration of Portugal’s marine forests. The endorsement follows the Marine Forests Festival held in Vila Nova de Milfontes (14–17 May 2026), where the initiative was developed by a broad coalition of scientists, professionals, entrepreneurs and citizens.

The manifesto highlights the importance of marine forests – including macroalgae forests, seagrass meadows and coral and sponge gardens – for biodiversity, coastal protection, climate regulation and coastal community well-being. It also warns of increasing pressures from climate change, habitat destruction, sedimentation and overfishing.

Among its key recommendations are the creation of a national strategy for marine forest ecosystems by 2040, stronger protection of marine protected areas, improved long-term ecological monitoring, and enhanced ecological restoration efforts. The document also stresses the importance of ocean literacy and public engagement.

With its signature, CESAM reaffirms its commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and supporting policies for the conservation and sustainable use of marine ecosystems. The manifesto remains open for additional signatories.

Read more: here.

Picture Credit: CESAM