Last weekend, after being postponed for weather reasons, Jardim de Vale Faro hosted the first edition of FAESA - Ecological and Sustainable Environment Fair Albufeira, with several craft stalls, physical activities (functional training, classes zumba, yoga, pilates, aerobics), shows, sensory exercises, workshops, where the participants learned to reuse used materials and transform them into beautiful decorative and useful pieces, therapeutic sessions, cooking demonstrations, healthy food tasting, workshops, lectures, environmental education activities and much more.
“It was two great days, with blue skies and attractive temperatures, which attracted thousands of people to the event together with the quality and variety of the programs”, said the mayor of Albufeira, José Carlos Rolo, who was accompanied by the deputy president , Cristiano Cabrita, and the president of the Parish Council of Albufeira and Olhos de Água, Indaleta Cabrita, visited the tents and watched some of the activities. José Carlos Rolo emphasized that ”the event has a very strong pedagogical aspect in terms of the environment and sustainability”, inviting children to participate in recycling workshops, learn how to create an aromatic herb garden, look at stories about animal life and food, for example. healthy snacks and participate in the Eco-Challenge initiative and Environmental Education activities at Tenda Kids. This was a very important activity, not only for adults, but basically for young people “because the cucumber is complicated for the little ones”, as people like to say, he said.
But in addition to teaching, the fun was not forgotten in the space specially prepared for the little ones with slides, trampolines, swings, face painting and the magic of giant soap bubbles that delighted the children.
Cristiano Cabrita reinforced the mayor’s words about the importance of the theme chosen for the event. “It is urgent that we know the environmental impacts on the life of the planet and on people. The earth is our home and we have no other, so together, as well as discussing the problem, which is naturally fundamental to changing behaviour, we must then take action to reduce the consequences of global warming to alleviate. As for the city hall, we make a huge commitment to environmental education, starting from the first school years, without forgetting the rest of the population”. Sometimes, small gestures are enough, such as not throwing trash on the floor, avoiding consumerism, reusing food, clothes, furniture, among other situations that only depend on each of us, he emphasized, remembering that ” the Government and the Municipalities there. responsible for intervening at a global level.” Cristiano Cabrita, who is responsible for the Environment and Events Secretariat, said that “the initiative started thinking about 2 years ago, with the aim of Health, Well-being, Environment, Sustainability, Crafts, Music, Lectures, Workshops, promote everything. positive, family context and, above all, in the low season. It was the first edition of an event that has all the conditions to continue and establish itself in the regional and national context. Always, as is our specialty, with the participation of the local community, musicians, associations, and health and welfare professionals. Like Albufeira Sea Fest; from Albufeira Sounds; Full Moon Galé; Albufeira Skate Challenge; I would say that FAESA in Albufeira is here to stay”.
We also focus from the program on the lectures “Happiness, Well-Being and Longevity” by Bárbara Taborda, a well-known television, fitness and happiness consultant who “developed the Slow Aging method, which helps people to integrate routines and healthy habits. people in their lives to be more productive, healthier and happier.” Passionate about cooking, especially after participating in Masterchef 2019, Bárbara launched the section “Saúde na Ponta do Forfo”, where she shares recipes and promotes the use of food as medicine; “Nutrition Re-education in the Prevention of Metabolic Diseases”, by nutritionist Martina Grieff; “My Path in Sustainability” by Ana Varela, actress and environmental activist; “Alternative Therapies for Animals”, by Qivetalgarve; presentation “Quinta do Freixo: an example of sustainability”, by Luís Cabral e Silva and ”Czechoaromatherapy and Metaphysics of Health”, by Katy Rapyas.
There were also moments of relaxation with Guided Meditation by André Lisa, Conscious Breathing by Pedro Macide and a session with Tibetan Bowls by Liliana Almeida. The entertainment continued with Contemporary Dance from Associação Fueté and Academia Karens and shows by Mateus Verde and Soudhealling by Johnny White, respectively on the first and second day.
At the end of the program, the awarding ceremony for another edition of the Eco-Challenge was held.
What are the key takeaways from the FAESA – Ecological and Sustainable Environment Fair discussed in the interview?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Environmental Expert
Time.news Editor: Welcome to our special segment on ecological initiatives! Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Dr. Maria Silva, an environmental scientist and advocate for sustainable practices. Dr. Silva, thank you for joining us!
Dr. Maria Silva: Thank you for having me! I’m thrilled to discuss the recent FAESA – Ecological and Sustainable Environment Fair that took place in Albufeira.
TNE: The fair had a diverse array of activities, from workshops on reusing materials to cooking demonstrations and fitness classes. What do you think was the most impactful segment of the program?
DMS: It’s hard to pick just one! However, I believe the workshops on reusing materials were particularly significant. They not only taught valuable skills but also highlighted the importance of creativity in sustainability. Transforming waste into something beautiful and useful can change our perception of what we discard.
TNE: That’s a great point! Mayor José Carlos Rolo mentioned the pedagogical aspects of the fair, especially for children. How crucial do you think it is to engage younger generations in environmental education?
DMS: It’s absolutely essential. Children are the future stewards of our planet. By introducing them to concepts of sustainability and environmental responsibility early on, as seen through activities like the aromatic herb garden workshops and Eco-Challenge, we can instill lifelong habits. It’s about making environmentalism fun and relatable.
TNE: The fair’s environment seemed to have a balance of education and fun, especially with activities for children. Could you elaborate on the benefits of combining these approaches?
DMS: Definitely! When children associate learning about the environment with fun activities—such as face painting or playing in giant soap bubbles—they are more likely to engage positively. Mixing play and education enhances retention and fosters a genuine interest in sustainability. It shows them that caring for the earth doesn’t have to be boring; it can be exciting!
TNE: We also heard from Cristiano Cabrita on the urgency of addressing environmental impacts. As someone deeply involved in environmental initiatives, how can local governments enhance community awareness about sustainability?
DMS: Community engagement is key. Local governments can host regular events like FAESA to keep sustainability at the forefront. They can also partner with schools to incorporate more environmental topics into the curriculum. It’s important to make sustainability a community-wide effort, encouraging local businesses and individuals to share in the commitment.
TNE: Speaking of community involvement, the fair emphasized music, crafts, and local associations. How do you see the role of local culture in promoting sustainability?
DMS: Local culture is a powerful tool. It connects people to their communities and fosters a shared identity. Promoting local crafts as sustainable alternatives to mass-produced items not only supports local artisans but also reduces carbon footprints. Festivals like FAESA can serve as platforms to celebrate cultural heritage while advocating for sustainable practices.
TNE: It’s fascinating how interconnected these elements are. As someone who advocates for sustainability, what advice would you give to individuals looking to make a difference in their own lives?
DMS: Start small! Simple actions like reducing waste, reusing items, and being mindful of consumption can make a big difference. Participate in local events that promote sustainability, and encourage your friends and family to join. Remember, every action counts, and it’s often the collective effort that brings about significant change.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Silva, for your insights! The FAESA fair seems like a remarkable event, setting a strong precedent for environmental awareness and community involvement.
DMS: Thank you for having me! I hope to see more initiatives like this that inspire positive change and foster a love for our planet.
TNE: We certainly do. Thank you to our audience for tuning in, and let’s all take a small step towards a more sustainable future!