Águeda welcomes aspiring journalists for the national 'Young Reporters for the Environment' event

The JRA 2026 National Seminar ‘Young Reporters for the Environment’ took place in Agueda between February 27th and March 1st, 2026. During three days, around 120 students and teachers gathered from across the country to promote environmental journalism and sustainability.

"Make a better world"

“Make a better world” is one of the key conclusions emerging from the meetings’ reports. The JRA 2026 was closed on this symbolic call for action, highlighting the collective responsibility to build a more sustainable future.Over three intensive days, Portuguese youth stepped in the shoes of environmental journalists, giving voice to the good practices making a difference in Portugal.

The Young Reporters for the Environment is part of series of events programmed throughout the year by the Municipality of Agueda, as the European Green Leaf 2026. Awarded by the European Commission, this distinction recognises small- and medium-sized European cities demonstrating leadership in environmental policies, strong community involvement and tangible results in the ecological transition.

Edson Santos, Vice-Mayor of Agueda, emphasised the importance of hosting this national initiative, highlighting the contribution of new generations to the development of innovative solutions.

“We are counting on young people to bring new perspectives and ideas,” Santos declared, encouraging participants to exercise their critical and creative thinking.

The Vice-Mayor also highlighted the importance of collaboration as part of Águeda's recognition as a European Green Leaf winner.

“This title reflects work developed over time, thanks to the commitment of a dedicated team and the involvement of the community,”.

He also stressed the municipality's objective to continue improving its environmental initiatives and invited participants to share new ideas and perspectives.

Santos thanked teachers and partners for their commitment to the youth’s civic and environmental education. He emphasised the importance of cooperating and sharing good practices between communities.

The event featured speeches by Francisco Teixeira from the Portuguese Environment Agency; Mário Jorge Rodrigues, Director of the Águeda School of Technology and Management (ESTGA); José Archer, President of the Blue Flag Association for Environment and Education; and Ana Batista, Vice-Rector of the University of Aveiro.

The speakers highlighted the importance of environmental literacy and education, as well as the role of journalism in mobilising communities for climate action. They also underlined the value of institutional partnerships in promoting a more informed and engaged citizenry capable of addressing contemporary environmental challenges.

In partnership with Águeda’s School of Technology and Management (ESTGA), the JRA 2026 delivered workshops, fieldwork, and peer discussions, offering participants an immersive introduction to environmental journalism.

The students had the opportunity to visit a range of locations, such as the River Interpretation Centre, the Macieira de Alcôba - home to the Pedagogic Centre of the Ancient Maize, and Pateira de Fermentelos – the largest natural lagoon in the Iberian Peninsula. They also engaged with various sustainable initiatives within the city of Agueda, like the Sm@rt City Lab, BeÁgueda and MobeÁgueda. Reflecting on these experiences in their reports, the students expressed high levels of satisfaction.

The seminar concluded with an award ceremony, recognising students for their work over the three-day event. The Best Poster Award highlighted outstanding talent and creativity, while the Best Report Award celebrated research and writing under the Young Reporters for the Environment programme. All of the students’ reports and projects will soon be available on the event’s website.

By welcoming this national initiative, Águeda reaffirmed its role as a space for learning, innovation and sustainability, placing young people at the centre of climate reflection and action.

More than a meeting, the 2026 JRA National Seminar served as a platform for inspiration and shared responsibility, encouraging participants to help make a better world.