Tavira, like other parts of the Algarve region, faces significant vulnerability to the impacts of climate change. This vulnerability is particularly pronounced concerning water-related issues, including dwindling water availability, deteriorating water quality, increased flooding, and rising sea levels.

In addition, the region faces economic and sociodemographic challenges, such as heavy reliance on agriculture and tourism, alongside an ageing population. Of notable concern is the resistance within the local population to adopt changes in lifestyle and a lack of confidence in municipal action regarding climate adaptation.

To address these issues, PHOENIX supports the implementation of food gardens and orchards to foster community participation and innovation, leveraging the synergy between organic agriculture and sustainable food practices. By promoting organic agriculture, the project aims to inspire new ideas for sustainable living and enhance accessibility to such practices for citizens.

Key objectives include mapping suitable spaces for food gardens, assessing community engagement with these areas, establishing a collaborative regulatory framework for shared resource utilization, and cultivating consensus on the role of food gardens in facilitating the city’s ecological transition.