The Municipality of Mosteiros, located on Fogo Island, is entering a new phase of sustainable development through the implementation of a series of initiatives supported by the Climate Action Programme (PAC). This programme, led by the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment with support from Luxembourg Cooperation, is part of the national climate policies on adaptation and mitigation, aiming to create a more informed and resilient territory capable of addressing contemporary problems and future challenges.

On February 28, 2025, members of the Mosteiros Municipal Assembly unanimously approved the Local Climate Action Plan (PLAC), a strategic tool that enables local action to maximize resilience and sustainability.

The municipality faces various climate risks, including wildfires, heatwaves, droughts, and sea level rise. The local economy—based on agriculture (coffee and wine production), livestock, and fishing—is highly vulnerable to climate-related disasters. Scarce water resources, coastal degradation, soil erosion, and impacts on agricultural activities further weaken the socio-economic landscape, contributing to phenomena such as desertification.

With over 20 km of coastline and a history rooted in fishing activities, the municipality now faces serious challenges in this sector. The decline in marine resources, worsened by ocean warming and acidification, is pushing pelagic species further from the coast, requiring greater fishing effort and contributing to the sector’s decline.

To address these challenges, the municipality is implementing the “Sustainable Fisheries Management and Marine Resources Valorization” project under the PLAC framework, with PAC support and implementation by the Institute of the Sea (IMar). The initiative includes:

• Training and installation of Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs)
• Techniques for processing and adding value to fish products
• Protection of marine biodiversity and restoration of coastal ecosystems
• Sea survival training

Other priority actions include strengthening agricultural resilience in the highlands to cope with climate change effects and reduce the risk of isolation during emergencies. Simultaneously, energy efficiency is being promoted in schools and public buildings through the installation of renewable energy systems, contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and aligning with national commitments (NDCs).

To increase climate literacy and promote environmental and climate awareness, a project proposal and architectural plan are in the final stages for the installation of a satellite branch of the Casa do Clima (Climate House) in the Café Museum building in the city of Igreja. This future space will include:

• An interactive and educational climate interpretation center
• Awareness-raising activities for residents, schools, researchers, and tourists
• A modern, multisensory museum component dedicated to climate citizenship

The Municipality of Mosteiros reaffirms its commitment to climate action and a development model that respects the environment, promotes social inclusion, and values local resources. Together, we are building a more sustainable and resilient future.

For more information on the PAC and the ongoing initiatives in the Municipality of Mosteiros, follow our official channels.

Author

Nilton Gomes, Programa Ação Climática