The "Azores Between Seas 2015" campaign, promoted by the Regional Government, will be held through the archipelago, starting on May 20, the European Maritime Day, until June 8, the World Ocean Day. This initiative aims to raise the awareness of the population for the harmful effects of marine litter, which is identified as one of today's major environmental issues.

Held under the motto "Zero Waste in the Azores Sea," this year's campaign is intended to raise the awareness of the Azorean society for the need to ensure an efficient management of the waste, namely plastics, which often end up in coastal areas and at sea.

In the context of this initiative, the Regional Secretary for the Sea, Science and Technology, through the Regional Directorate for Sea Affairs, will present the Action Plan for Marine Litter in the Azores - PALMA. This strategic tool comprises over ten projects and initiatives intended to draw attention to the problem of marine litter in the archipelago as well as to minimise its environmental impact. It is in line with the Marine Strategy Framework Directive and with national and international policies on this matter.

The programme of the 2015 edition of "Azores Between Seas" campaign includes dozens of actions to be carried out throughout the archipelago in partnership with Island Natural Parks, regional Science Centres, environmental NGOs, nautical clubs, among other associations and entities.

Besides the presentation of a project for the monitoring of coastal and underwater cleaning campaigns on all islands, the programme also includes several initiatives, such as the screening of films selected from Seia Cine-Eco Festival.

The "Azores Between Seas" campaign is organised by the Regional Secretariats for the Sea, Science and Technology and for Agriculture and the Environment, through the Regional Directorates for Sea Affairs and the Environment, in partnership with Azorina.

The programme of the campaign, updated on a continuous basis, is available at www.azores.gov.pt/entremares.

For further information, those who are interested may contact the Island Natural Park or the Regional Directorate for Sea Affairs by email [email protected].