Our Pledge
Our Pledge is to Create an Ecological Sanctuary
Vision
Ecological Ethics, Valuing Life, and Inclusion.
Transparency, Responsible Co-operation, and Innovation.
Sustainability and Short-Circuit Agri-Food Systems.
Values
Harmony and Compassion Among People, Wildlife, and Nature.
Respect for the Life and Dignity of all Living Beings.
Regeneration and Preservation of Ecosystems.
Mission
Leave a Lasting Legacy for Future Generations.
Innovative and Responsible Environmental Practices.
Education, Appreciation and Community Awareness.
Our Alignment with the SDGs *
What We Are Doing
SDG 4 - Quality Education
The “Vale da Esteva Takes to Classroom” programme delivers environmental education in schools in Castelo Branco, creating school gardens and hands-on classes. It seeks to train conscious and proactive citizens in the context of climate change adaptation.
SDG 5 - Gender Equality
The project promotes gender equality by basing recruitment exclusively on the merit and qualifications of the candidates.
SDG 6 - Clean Water and Sanitation
Through the installation of Premier Tech septic systems, Vale da Esteva ensures an ecological and efficient treatment of wastewater, contributing to the reduction of water pollution and the protection of groundwater reserves.
The planned investment in rainwater harvesting also represents an example of sustainable water management, increasing resilience in dry regions.
SDG 7 - Affordable and Clean Energy
Vale da Esteva, as an off-grid property, has full energy autonomy through the use of solar panels (with generator backup when necessary), demonstrating a concrete solution for decentralized and renewable energy access. It aligns with the energy transition and shows that it is possible to create sustainable lifestyles with a low environmental impact.
SDG 8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth
The empowerment of the local community through capacity building, cooperation, and financial return from the project itself supports a model of inclusive and regenerative social economy.
Tje experiences that value and protect nature also promote local culture and economy, aiming for economic, social, and environmental sustainability.
SDG 12 - Responsible Consumption and Production
The Vale da Esteva practices sustainable agroecology based on biodiversity economy and ecosystem services, promoting short agri-food supply chains and the conscious use of natural resources.
SDG 13 - Climate Action
Sustainable farming practices that respect and enhance the environment are regenerative, conserve natural resources, and promote soil improvement and local biodiversity. These practices are a response to climate change, aiming to mitigate the impacts of desertification and contribute to carbon capture.
SDG 15 - Life on Land
By focusing on the Regeneration of the Ecosystems of Vale da Esteva (REVE), within the Tejo Internacional Natural Park (PNTI), and on the enhancement of local biodiversity and the protection of native species, Vale da Esteva contributes directly to the conservation and sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems.
SDG 16 - Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
The connection of the mentor, Cristina Xavier de Sousa, to the Laudato Si’ movement demonstrates an ethical and spiritual commitment to intergenerational justice, ecological peace, and integral ecology. Vale da Esteva’s approach, by engaging communities, schools, local institutions, and the wider public, and by operating with transparency and ethical values, contributes to promoting a culture of peace and non-violence, reinforcing values of active and ecological citizenship, and inspiring conscious, participatory, and sustainable decision-making.
SDG 17- Partnerships for the Goals
The project involves partnerships with local entities and businesses and participates in forums, strengthening collaboration between the public, private, and academic sectors.
*Vale da Esteva is a new and developing project, and this certification will be included as part of the ecotourism initiative, which has recently been approved by the ICNF and the Municipality of Castelo Branco. This project is now in the phase of attracting partners and investors. If you are interested in learning more about the ecotourism project, please send an email to admin@valedaesteva.pt.
Agroecology and
Agroforestry
Sustainable agricultural practices that respect and benefit the environment, are regenerative, conserve natural resources, and promote local biodiversity.
Regenerative
Tourism
Experiences that value and protect nature, stimulate culture and the local economy, with a view to economic, social, and environmental sustainability.
Raising Awareness and Providing Education
Information for travellers on the importance of protecting the environment, sustainable agricultural practices, and how to have a positive impact on travel destinations.
Community
Training the local community to welcome travellers, boosting the circular economy, and promoting the region's traditions and natural and cultural heritage.
