EVOA was recognized yesterday (9th November) as one of the best wetland visitor centres in the world. The award was presented at the 14th Meeting of the Conference of the Contracting Parties to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands (Ramsar COP14) in Geneva, Switzerland. EVOA was selected by an international panel of highly renowned professionals in the field.
The judges were particularly impressed by EVOA’s accessibility, encompassing not only physical mobility but also the wide range of languages used in its communications. Chris Rostron, Director of Wetland Link International (WLI) and head of the awarding body, stated: “The centre caters to everyone from kindergarten children to adults and offers everyone a rich, science-based experience.”
EVOA provides a variety of birdwatching activities, including private and group tours, following the tides or even at night (such as a citizen science activity for owl counting). It also hosts workshops, cultural activities, and small events.
For Companhia das Lezírias, this award is the recognition of 10 years of dedication and investment. It reflects a constant commitment to raising awareness about the importance of the Tagus Estuary for both birds and people. It is hoped that this accolade will further encourage environmental awareness—particularly regarding water issues—and attract more national and international visitors, as well as the school community, to this emblematic nature site right at Lisbon’s doorstep.
With an increasing focus on sustainability across all its operations, Companhia das Lezírias continues to support research and conservation through various national, European, and global projects, sharing knowledge in the pursuit of best practices for environmental preservation.
The Star Wetland Center Award is a new initiative recognizing best practices in ecotourism and wetland education. It is coordinated by Wetland Link International (WLI), a global support network for over 300 visitor centres located along bird migratory routes worldwide.
