Cascais, Mafra, Sintra I Collaborative Process

The proposal to create a Community-Initiative Marine Protected Area (MPA) along the coastline of the municipalities of Cascais, Mafra and Sintra continues the commitment to protecting the Portuguese ocean through collaboration between the community, science and public policy.

A shared territory, a common commitment

Developed in partnership between the three municipalities and Oceano Azul Foundation, this initiative follows the same participatory and integrated model successfully applied in the Algarve, where the first Marine Protected Area of Community Interest was formally designated by the Government in 2024.

This new proposal aims to conserve unique marine ecosystems across a coastal territory of exceptional natural, cultural, and socio-economic value.

Cascais, Mafra and Sintra share a marine heritage of great ecological and cultural significance. Recognising the need to protect it in a coordinated and lasting way – with the involvement of their local communities – the three municipalities signed a memorandum of understanding with Oceano Azul Foundation in 2021, formally initiating the joint process to create a Marine Protected Area of Community Interest.

This commitment gained momentum in October 2022, with the Oceano Azul Expedition – Cascais | Mafra | Sintra. This multidisciplinary scientific mission collected vital data on marine biodiversity and habitats, identifying areas of high ecological value such as the Camões seamount, kelp forests and gorgonian gardens. These findings provided the scientific foundation for subsequent studies and the identification of priority areas for conservation.

Discover the Oceano Azul Expedition Cascais | Mafra | Sintra

Science, participation, and local commitment

In December 2023, the Portuguese Government – through the Ministry of the Economy and the Sea, and the Ministry of Environment and Climate Action – formally joined the project, recognising its strategic importance. The Government committed financial support from the Environmental Fund to establish the Project for the Research and Study of the Natural Values of the Sea Adjacent to Cascais, Mafra and Sintra.

This initiative includes a socio-economic study, compiling data on marine-related economic activities, maritime uses and social dynamics across the three municipalities. Local communities and stakeholders – including recreational, artisanal and industrial fishers, maritime-tourism companies, industry and service providers – are actively involved.

In parallel, complementary scientific studies are underway, expanding knowledge of the area’s natural values. Financed by the Environmental Fund, these studies build on the 2022 expedition, applying similar methodologies while exploring new biodiversity hotspots to secure their protection.

A participatory process will also take place, designed to combine scientific and socio-economic knowledge with the experience of coastal communities. Public sessions and stakeholder meetings will serve as platforms for knowledge-sharing, capacity-building and co-creation. These will result in the first draft of zoning maps and protection proposals, developed in a transparent and inclusive way, forming the foundation of the final submission to Government.

From commitment to implementation

By 2027, a comprehensive technical dossier will be delivered to the Portuguese Government. This document will consolidate all scientific and socio-economic studies, the outcomes of the participatory process, the legal framework and the formal positions of the main stakeholders.

Its objective: to support the formal designation of the Community-Initiated Marine Protected Area of Cascais, Mafra and Sintra, including draft legal instruments required for its classification, implementation and management.

This initiative strengthens a bottom-up approach – grounded in science, community engagement and political will – to protect the ocean. As with the Marine Natural Park of the Algarve Reef – Pedra do Valado, the Cascais, Mafra and Sintra process demonstrates that only through a shared, integrated vision across territories, sectors and decision-making levels is it possible to achieve effective, fair and lasting protection for marine ecosystems and the communities that depend on them.

The municipalities involved

Cascais
Home to over 200.000 residents and 32 km of coastline, Cascais is a national leader in valuing and protecting the sea. It was the first Portuguese municipality to establish a locally managed Marine Protected Area and implements an ambitious Municipal Ocean Strategy with multiple sustainability and innovation projects.

Mafra
With 11 km of coastline marked by cliffs and coves, Mafra is world-renowned for its Surfing Reserve and pristine beaches. The sea is central to the municipality’s identity and economic vitality.

Sintra
A UNESCO World Heritage Site for its Cultural Landscape, Sintra boasts unique biodiversity thanks to its exceptional location and microclimate. Preserving this natural and cultural heritage is a municipal priority.

Partners