The photographic exhibition “Bichos de cá, Bichos de lá”, developed within the framework of an international partnership led by CESAM, was one of the highlights of the inaugural ceremony of the European Green Leaf 2026, held on 8 January in Águeda. The initiative symbolically marked the beginning of the year in which the city takes on the European distinction awarded to municipalities with exemplary environmental policies.
On display at the Águeda Arts Centre until the end of January, the exhibition features 14 exhibition modules exploring key concepts of ecology and nature conservation, such as predation, mimicry, endemic species and threatened species. Each module includes panels from three different countries — Portugal, Brazil and Mozambique — allowing a comparative reading of the ecological roles played by different species in distinct environmental contexts. This approach shows that, despite geographical differences, nature follows universal principles, reinforcing the need for global strategies to protect ecosystems.
Integrated into the Eco-Schools Programme of ESTGA-UA, the exhibition also strengthens its educational dimension, promoting scientific literacy and environmental awareness among the academic community and the general public, at a particularly relevant moment for the debate on biodiversity conservation.
After being presented at the University of Aveiro, as well as in Mozambique and Brazil, “Bichos de cá, Bichos de lá” now gains a new international projection by joining the inaugural programme of the European Green Leaf 2026, linking the scientific work of CESAM with Águeda’s commitment to sustainability, environmental education and the appreciation of natural heritage.
The opening ceremony was attended by the Rector of the University of Aveiro and the respective rectoral team, the Mayor of Águeda, as well as national and European representatives, including Patrick Child from the Directorate-General for Environment of the European Commission and João Manuel Esteves, Secretary of State for the Environment, highlighting the political and institutional importance of the event.
Original news published in: Notícias UA, 8 January 2026