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Traditional house in Santana with dragon tree in the garden, Madeira, Portugal

Autonomous Region of Madeira, Portugal

Traditional house in Santana with dragon tree in the garden, Madeira, Portugal
© cristianbalate | Adobe Stock

The Autonomous Region of Madeira, a Portuguese archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean, is classified as an outermost territory of the EU. While Madeira’s main economic activity is tourism, it is also famous for its wine and fruit, especially bananas, passion fruit and custard apples. In 30 years of EU membership, illiteracy and child mortality levels have fallen significantly in Madeira, although the birth rate and resident population figures have also been falling.

Examples of projects and initiatives supported by the EU

Recovery of the terrestrial habitats of Ilhas Desertas

On the Desertas Islands, LIFE projects are being carried out to restore their terrestrial habitats, which are unique to the endemic flora there. The measures taken are focusing on the eradication or control of species such as goats, rabbits, mice and tobacco plants that were introduced there. It has received around 50 % of its financing from the EU, with a contribution, amounting to EUR 658 798. 

Remodeling and Enlargement of the Nossa Senhora da Estrela Home

Santa Casa da Misericórdia da Calheta has received financial support from the ERDF to refurbish and expand Lar Nossa Senhora da Estrela. The plans include a block with more rooms, a new space to support users with dementia and refurbishment of outdoor spaces. It is receiving a total of EUR 3 161 422 in co-financing. 

Recovery and Requalification of Fountains, Windmills and Ecoteca

The island of Porto Santo has also receive EU funds for projects, such as the upgrading of the port of Porto Santo. Recently, the island has invested in the restoration of wind mills and drinking fountains a project to recover local heritage, but also to create alternatives to beach tourism. The ERDF provided EUR 456 314 in co-financing. 

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