For the eighth year running, Vila Nova de Famalicão will receive the ECOXXI Green Flag, which recognises the good sustainable development practices adopted by the municipality. For the mayor of Famalicão, Mário Passos, this award shows once again how
‘sustainability is a central factor in the municipality's strategy’.
The ECOXXI project evaluates the performance of municipalities and distinguishes as eco-municipalities those that present good policies, actions and activities linked to environmental education for sustainable development, nature conservation, energy, water, air, mobility, waste, among other areas. In the set of 21 local sustainability indicators used to assess the performance of municipalities, Famalicão achieved a score of 72.8 per cent - the highest score ever.
‘This distinction reinforces Famalicão's commitment to sustainability and motivates us to do more and better every year,’ noted Mário Passos. The award ceremony will take place on 28 November at the Casa das Histórias Paula Rego in Cascais.
It should be noted that the European Blue Flag Association (ABAE) implemented the ECOXXI programme in 2005. The project presents itself as a necessary tool for implementing the pillars of sustainable development. As well as recognising and identifying good sustainability practices from different municipalities, the programme also values education towards sustainability and environmental quality.