Fantastic news for biodiversity as Portugal has abandoned plans for a new airport in Lisbon, originally slated for construction on the Tagus Estuary, following a lawsuit led by environmental groups represented by ClientEarth. The move comes after mounting pressure to safeguard the ecologically sensitive area, renowned for its significance as a haven for migratory birds.
The Tagus Estuary regularly hosts up to 200,000 wintering birds and is the most important place in the country for wintering ducks, waders, and other waterbirds such as flamingos and gulls. Meanwhile, in any given migration season, the Tagus can play host to over 300,000 birds, as it is a crucial pit stop for migratory birds on their long journey.
The decision to abandon the Montijo airport project on the Tagus Estuary, in favour of an alternative location near Alcochete is a victory for conservationists. Legal action highlighted the failure to adequately assess the environmental impact of the proposed airport, prompting a reconsideration of plans and a commitment to prioritise ecological preservation. However, is building an airport the right move anyway?
As Head of ClientEarth’s Iberian and Mediterranean office, Soledad Gallego, said “...airports have global climate impacts regardless of where they are built. The Portuguese government should be asking itself whether building a new airport at all is in line with its climate goals and in the best interest of the health of people and nature.”
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Portugal's decision to abandon the airport on the Tagus Estuary protects vital bird habitats, a positive move for biodiversity. However, considering such a project initially reflects a need for stronger commitment to environmental and climate goals from the start. This should not have been a idea in the first place.
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This is huge news for birds and conservation efforts in Portugal.
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@george_kariuki Absolutely, it's very important to protect these birds and their homes and the Portuguese should not have even floated that idea at all in the first place. It's important to always put nature first
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Protecting biodiversity and it's habitat is a wise decision 💚💚
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@elizbeth_gathigia Always a good decision to protect nature. We have to show appreciation to the planet for its importance as it has always taken good care of us. One good turn requires another
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Great win for environmentalists and biodiversity.Development should never be a priority over nature🌿🍃
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This is a great call to enhance biodiversity, it is surely a great win for this beautiful creatures and the planet as a whole. Great to see ClientEarth fight for sanity in our environment.
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Very impressive. It reflects a balanced approach that prioritizes environmental preservation. This move demonstrates the country's commitment to sustainable development and its recognition of the importance of protecting ecologically sensitive areas.
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@walter_lungayi I agree, the authorities agreeing to stop the airport construction show a sense of responsibility.
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Halting the airport project in Lisbon's nature reserve is a win for biodiversity and conservation efforts.
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@princess_nel_268 It is a great example to the world on how we can prioritize conservation measures over luxurious developments.
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they made a good decision that few can make
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@annett_michuki 💚💚
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This is the way to go...we should protect all the ecosystems and every creature in them for they all play an important role in ensuring there is stability on the planet.
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@jane_wangui Happy to see Portugal striking a balance between development and conservation, this is the way to go. We must protect the environment by all cost.