In collaboration with the Regional Directorate for the Environment and Climate Action, and as part of its adherence to the National Strategy to Combat Cortaderia, the LIFE IP AZORES NATURA project has been stepping up its efforts to raise awareness and combat the invasive species Cortaderia selloana, known as Pampas Grass.

Recently, the first positive impacts of this campaign have become visible, with increased awareness of the risks associated with this species. On the island of Pico, Madalena Town Council has already taken the first step by removing several specimens of Pampas Grass from its areas, demonstrating the practical effect of the awareness-raising promoted by the project.

Pampas Grass is currently one of mainland Portugal’s most significant threats to biodiversity, causing ecological imbalances due to its rapid spread. In the Azores, its presence has been increasing, especially in natural spaces and gardens, where it is still used as an ornamental plant.

The active involvement of local organisations is essential to guarantee an effective response to this threat. The Madalena Town Council’s initiative is an example of how raising awareness can translate into concrete and immediate action, helping to contain the species.

This campaign is a significant step forward for the LIFE IP AZORES NATURA project, reaffirming that raising awareness is an essential tool in the fight against invasive alien species and an important step in preserving the Azores’ natural ecosystems.