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- Published: 05 November 2025
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The HOPE project aims to be a ray of hope in the ongoing efforts of experts, scientists, and institutions to conserve and protect the marine natural heritage within the MAC region.
At the heart of the project lies the acknowledgment of Macaronesia as a sanctuary for marine species, designed to promote public awareness, scientific research, and the responsible observation of marine wildlife inhabiting the region’s waters. At the same time, HOPE seeks to foster transnational exchange of experiences and cooperation in developing effective structures for the conservation and protection of marine biodiversity.
By embracing new technologies, HOPE will promote the blue economy and encourage the rise of a new generation of citizens aware of the immense living wealth of their coasts. The project will work in synergy with the private and tourism sectors, as well as with public institutions, ensuring that all links in the socioeconomic chain contribute to making the MAC region a true marine oasis.
PROJECT FACT SHEET
CODE
1/MAC/2/2.7/0132
TITLE
Marine and Cetacean Species Sanctuary in MAC Space: HOPE
MAIN OBJECTIVE
The project aims to strengthen collaboration among Macaronesian regions by promoting shared conservation practices and mutual support. It facilitates access to scientific tools, encourages the exchange of knowledge, and fosters cooperation with areas that have fewer resources, helping to ensure that all regions can take an active role in preserving their marine ecosystems.
TOTAL COST
€ 1 611 467.55
PARTNER COST
€ 240 000.00
ELIGIBLE COST
€ 240 000.00
PARTNERS
- Innoceana, Canarias;
- Ayuntamiento de Guía de Isora, Canarias;
- Associação Comercial e Industrial do Funchal - Câmara de Comércio e Indústria da Madeira, Madeira;
- Observatório do Mar dos Açores, Azores;
- Secretaria Regional da Educação e dos Assuntos Culturais Direção Regional dos Assuntos Culturais, Azores;
- Município de Machico, Madeira;
- Direcção Geral do Ambiente e Acção Climática, Santo Tomé y Príncipe;
- Direction des Parcs Nationaux, Senegal;
- Aire Marine Protégée Saint-Louis, Senegal;
- Oficina Subregional para África Occidental del Programa de Naciones Unidas para el Medio Ambiente (PNUMA), Costa de Marfil;
- Environmental Protection Agency, Ghana;
- Cabo Verde Natura 2000, Cabo Verde;
- Bios.CV, Cabo Verde.
CO-FINANCING
85% by the European Program INTERREG MAC 2021-2027
PROJECT WEBPAGE
SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES AND JUSTIFICATION
O.1. Establish the conditions for the waters of the MAC area to become a sanctuary and a refuge for marine species, with the purpose of preserving and protecting the region's marine biodiversity.
O.2. Raise awareness in local community on marine wealth and its conservation, as well as facilitate scientific research related to marine fauna in the MAC area.
O.3. Develop a sustainable tourism industry in the region by promoting collaboration between the private sector, tourism, and public institutions, raising awareness about poor and harmful practices, and fostering closer cooperation among all partners.
Rationale / Project Justification
In the southwest of Tenerife, within the Teno-Rasca Special Area of Conservation, a natural sanctuary where marine life thrives in its wildest and most authentic form, HOPE suffered a devastating accident when her tail fin was severed by a boat propeller. She was found floating at the surface, unable to swim and emitting heartbreaking cries of pain. Even more moving was the presence of her family, who stayed by her side, refusing to leave her. With no possible recovery, HOPE’s case led to the first euthanasia ever carried out on a wild cetacean—a difficult but necessary decision to prevent further suffering and agony. This heartbreaking event marked a turning point. Her story became the catalyst for the HOPE Project, created in her memory and as a lasting commitment to drive meaningful change in how we interact with marine life. Our mission focuses on research, education, and the implementation of sustainable and respectful practices that ensure the survival and well-being of ocean species.ACTIONS
Marine Species Sanctuary
A1.1. Establishment of Marine Interpretation Centres and updating of existing spaces for biodiversity conservation.
A1.2. Creation of a “Citizen Science Accelerator” to promote active public participation in marine conservation across the MAC area.
A1.3. Acquisition and adaptation of a Pilot Boat: A model of sustainability and good practice in tourism and marine wildlife observation activities.
Promotion of Citizen Awareness and Scientific Research
A2.1. Establishment of a Blue School /School of the Sea: Education in marine conservation and ocean literacy.
A2.2. Exhibition, celebration and promotion of marine biodiversity through art.
A2.3. Training in marine conservation and awareness: fostering knowledge and engagement.
Development of a Sustainable Blue Economy and Promotion of Multisectoral Collaboration
A3.1. Advisory programme on sustainable management for tourism businesses.
A3.2. Establishment of a Marine Life Emergency Room: Rescue and rehabilitation within the HOPE Project.
A3.3: Blue Economy Innovation Centre: Collaboration with third countries for marine sustainability.EXPECTED RESULTS
ER.1.1. Creation of a Marine Interpretation Centre and revitalisation of existing ones.
ER.1.2. Incorporation of new dissemination technologies.
ER.1.3. Promotion of citizen science through expeditions or tours, scientific publications, training programmes, and the establishment of an oceanographic education laboratory.
ER.1.4. Conversion of a pilot boat into a model of sustainability and best practices.
ER.1.5. Training programmes for crew members, guides, and lookouts in responsible marine wildlife watching.
ER.2.1. Establishment and/or improvement of Atlantic Sea Schools.
ER.2.2. Training programmes for at least 640 children in marine conservation and ocean literacy.
ER.2.3. Training programmes for young scientists from across the region in marine data collection.
ER.2.4. Promotion of marine art through cultural activities and the opening of a Marine Art Gallery.
ER.2.5. Training programmes for volunteers and professionals in the sector.
ER.3.1. A tourism model that respects local wildlife.
ER.3.2. Promotion of sustainable best practices at institutional, economic, and social levels.
ER.3.3. Increased awareness of the damage caused to coastal wildlife and collaboration with the La Tahonilla Wildlife Recovery Centre.
ER.3.4. Closer collaboration among partners to address common challenges.
ER.3.5. Sharing knowledge about natural environments, the challenges they face, and the opportunities they offer.
