FAM's inaugural local trip aims to explore the intricate ecosystems present in the ocean, which are formed by macroalgae, plants, and various marine organisms such as sponges and corals. These ecosystems provide valuable resources, shelter, and serve as nurseries for numerous marine species.
The trip objective was to meet the recognized researcher and social entrepreneur Raquel Gaspar from Ocean Alive cooperative in Sado estuary.
Ocean alive founder
Raquel Gaspar Ocean Alive co-founder, is a PhD, marine biologist, National Geographic Explorer. An amazing social entrepreneur that created the Portugal’s first co-operative dedicated to ocean protection.
“When I was in 9th grade I had a very special biology teacher, that managed to ignite my passion in nature. That year I created the dream of being a marine biologist and today I do what I love: protect the sea, involving more people in this mission.”
Ocean Alive works to protect the ocean through marine education projects and activities that promote behavioral transformation. It focuses on the Sado Estuary, where seagrass meadows serve as the nursery habitat for both the prey of the resident dolphin population and the fish and shellfish on which the local fishing community relies for their economy.
Social and Environmental Impact
Social and Environmental Impact
Ocean Alive aims to safeguard the seagrass meadows by engaging the local fisherwomen, known as Keepers of the Sea. This is achieved through marine education programs, awareness campaigns, and monitoring the project's impact on the seagrass meadows.
"All of our activities have a positive impact on the preservation of seagrass meadows and the empowerment of women in the fishing community of the Sado Estuary."
“All of our activities have a positive impact on the protection of seagrass meadows and on the employability of women in the Sado estuary’s fishing community.”
Ocean Alive is an institutional partner of UNESCO, contributing to SDG 14: Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, SDG 5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls, SDG 13: Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts, and SDG 4: Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education for all.