<aside> ❇️ This document was prepared to give you a better understanding of which projects we are supporting, what the vibe is, and the type of adventures that await.
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Hosts: Joana Castro (founder) & André Cid
AIMM Portugal was founded in 2010, it is a privately owned, non-governmental association and not-for-profit organization with an international scope. Operating in Algarve, more specifically the city of Albufeira. AIMM functions as a reference for research, education and conservation of the environment in Portuguese waters, promoting activities and partnerships, which empower our understanding of marine related issues, identifying threats and mitigating their effects in marine wildlife. They work with sea agents, like dolphin-watching companies, administration and authorities, other NGO sea related associations and organizations and public environmental institutions. Jointly we develop scientific research in environmental topics and try to promote a healthier and safer environment for marine species.
🐋 Our Participants had the opportunity to work with experienced marine biologists and assist with data collection for important marine conservation research and produce documentaries, podcasts, youtube and Reel series about marine conservation while playing an active role in the future conservation of marine habitat. Collaborations with BTG resulted in numerous new opportunities, grants and exposure for AIMM with our greenfluencers, creators and scientists.
https://youtu.be/GounO5xNVUE?si=1dWt42HP76gKAHHy
The main recorded species in the area are the short beaked common dolphin (Delphinus delphis) and common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus). Less common, is the threatened harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena), as well as risso’s dolphins, orcas (Orcinus orca), stripped dolphins (Stenella coerueloalba), the minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) and the fin whale (Balaenoptera physalus).
During the field season, May to November, the temperature will vary on average between 17 ̊C and 29 ̊C. The fieldwork is conducted from a dedicated research boat - KETOS (time at sea from 4h up to 6h). During the fieldwork we are exposed to the sun with no protection from the elements, so participants should come prepared for it, however, even in hot days, it can get cold and windy at sea so it is advised to bring warmer clothes.
Although the sea conditions are generally relatively calm, it may sometimes get choppy and some water spray will occur. For this reason, the fieldwork is not very appropriate for people with serious back problems.
Accommodation will be shared by the whole team: participants, research assistants and researchers. The house is equipped with Wi-Fi, laundry room and everything needed for a working kitchen. Participants will share 3 rooms, 3 bathrooms, living room, dining room, kitchen, office garden with a swimming pool. The rooms are mixed gender, however whenever possible the distribution will be arranged as to have separate gender rooms.
<aside> ❇️ Greenpreneurs! While we are staying at AIMM, we will also take you on three “day trip” adventures: 1) to visit a wildlife rehab center - RIAS on November 6th, 2) to visit the marine conservation and bioacoustics association Somar on November 7th, and 3) learn about renaturalization by planting native plant species with Floresta Nativa on November 8th!!
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