Who we are
An ecosystem regeneration community focused on action and impact.
We are a group of changemakers with a wide variety of backgrounds, perspectives, skill sets, and experiences, who have come together to address the ongoing challenges related to ecosystem degradation in the western Algarve. Through effective planning, taking action, and growing our impact, we are working to assure improved soil quality, water availability, biodiversity, and local livelihoods.
Our work
Regenerating our bioregion
We are working on holistic, community-led restoration approaches that unite nature, culture, and economy in our bioregion. We are geographically focused on the area found south and west of Foia Mountain, near Monchique, and generally west of the Rio Arade, for waterways draining to the south and west coasts of this part of the Algarve.
Explore the Barlavento Network
Discover the projects shaping our region and the connections bringing its regenerative community together.
Projects Across the Region
Discover regenerative projects, initiatives and organisations working throughout the Barlavento.
Our Community Network
See how people, projects and organisations are connected and collaborating across the region.
Why participate?
Our community is working to shape the ecological future of the western Algarve together
Being an active participant affords you the opportunity to be part of something bigger; something that will bring tangible change and improvement to our little part of the world.
Aligned vision
for a thriving, regenerative bioregion, focusing on the Monchique Watershed.
Co-create actionable strategies
for ecosystem restoration and socio-ecological resilience throughout the region.
Aligned resources and skills
to better implement and scale our work…we are stronger working together!
Meet and work with others
who also want to scale the impact of ecosystem regeneration here.
Who can join?
This community is for all who want to actively contribute to an improved, regenerated ecosystem in our local area.
Our local ecosystem is an intertwined, interdependent web having ecological, social, and economic aspects, each of which must be strong for the entire system to work effectively. Because of this complexity, we are seeking people with a variety of interests, viewpoints, experiences, and skills to come together to form a cohesive working group.
Land owners, farmers and stewards
whether actively engaged in or wanting to get started on ecosystem regeneration work at your location.
Land stewards and regeneration practitioners
with knowledge and experience in ecosystem restoration who are ready for your next challenge.
Program designers and facilitators
who are ready to prepare and guide activities and events.
Scientists and researchers
who want to contribute your academic and practical knowledge and expertise in support of our work.
Engaged citizens
wishing to be a part of the regeneration of the southwestern Algarve, regardless of your knowledge or skill level in regeneration.
Policymakers
working for government agencies which support ecosystem restoration initiatives and programs.
Participating projects
A dynamic collection of restoration projects is joining together to scale our impact
Learn more about the participating projects
Quinta Vale da Lama
Odiáxere
Vinha Velha
Barão de São João
Quinta do Jasmim
Bensafrim
Restore Nature Foundation
Barão de São João
Santuário da Machada
Bensafrim
Quinta dos Três Figos
Marmelete
African Peace Village
Burgau
Zambujeira de Fora
Barão de São João
Corte Medronheira
Bensafrim
Quinta do Horizonte
Pedralva
Carriagem Project
Rogil
Monte do Olho Branco
Aljezur
Mata Viva
Barão de São João
Lagos Mais Verde
Lagos
Mud Valley Foundation
Odiáxere
Learn more about the participating projects
Want to learn more about the Community?
If you are a landowner or steward in the western Barlavento region who is implementing and practicing regenerative forestry or agriculture and want to learn how to get involved with the Community, please send an email to info@barlavento.eco
Get involved
Programs & Events
Our community is based on collaboration and interaction, whether that be a planning session or a regenerative-action event in the field. We would love for you to join us and be a part of the impact we are creating.
Please note that dates and topics are subject to change. Check this page regularly for updates.
Month of Regeneration
November 2026, Various Dates
The Ecosystem Regeneration Community of the Barlavento will present a variety of actions and events throughout November 2026 to support the regeneration of our local ecosystem. We are actively seeking volunteers to support this work and help scale our impact.
A full range of activities is offered by the members of this community. Participants and volunteers will help with landscape maintenance, reforestation, and waterworks. Tours, trainings, and workshops are also offered.