Preserving the Montado: A Commitment to Biodiversity and Culture

On this International Day of Forests, we celebrate the Montado, one of the world's most precious and biodiverse ecosystems. This unique landscape, found in southern Portugal and other Mediterranean regions, showcases a harmonious blend of nature and human ingenuity.

The Montado is an agro-silvo-pastoral system that has thrived for centuries. Protected by some of the world’s oldest laws—dating back to the 7th century and refined in the early 13th century—its cork oaks and holm oaks are cherished cultural and natural treasures. These trees not only support local livelihoods but also provide critical environmental benefits.

Beyond its rich cultural significance, the Montado plays a vital role in carbon sequestration, water regulation, and biodiversity conservation. Its tree cover helps absorb CO₂ from the atmosphere, mitigating climate change, while its unique ecosystem maintains soil health, prevents desertification, and supports a wide range of plant and animal species, including endangered wildlife like the Iberian lynx and imperial eagle.

At the heart of the Montado is the cork oak, a tree that regenerates its bark every 9 to 12 years. This natural cycle makes cork harvesting a renewable, sustainable practice, ensuring the landscape remains intact for future generations. Choosing cork supports this delicate balance, maintaining the health of the ecosystem while providing economic stability to local communities.

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