Seed Balls: Madeira Tests Drones to Reforest Burned Areas
Madeira is testing drones to drop seed balls in steep, fire-damaged terrain after the 2024 wildfire, aiming to restore inaccessible areas and supporting long-term ecological recovery.
IN FOCUS
Madeiran Migration to Curaçao in the 1940s: The Call of Oil
In the 1940s, thousands of Madeirans left their homeland for Curaçao, drawn by the promise of stable jobs in the booming oil industry. This migration reshaped lives, forging new communities in the Caribbean.
IN FOCUS
Why Does Madeira Have So Many Pebble Beaches?
Unlike Porto Santo with its soft, sandy beaches, Madeira’s coast - with few exceptions - is mostly made up of pebbles. Why is that?
Madeira Taxi Fare Cut Fails as Taximeters Reject Lower Rates
Bummer! Madeira taxis failed to lower fares by adjusting taximeters, revealing a setup that does not allow price decreases.
Trespassing at Praia Formosa Now Results in Fines of Up to €300
Persistent disregard for safety warnings at Praia Formosa has led officials to activate fines under a long-standing maritime safety law.
Suffering from Obesity and Diabetes? SNS Now Covers Ozempic
The expensive drug Ozempic is now covered by SNS in Portugal, offering treatment for people with diabetes and obesity, addressing the needs of many in Madeira.
Waste Recycling? Barely a Thing in Madeira
Eco-Tourism? Not quite yet. In 2024, Madeira recycled just 17% of its growing urban waste, far below Portugal’s 70% national target for 2030.
Nurses Flag Care Risks, SESARAM Responds With 16 New Hires
Nurses in Madeira have recently spoken out, stating that they cannot be held liable for failures in care caused by excessive workloads. Their powerful protest led SESARAM to respond by announcing new hires intended to ease pressure on emergency services.
Ponta do Sol Plans to Reopen Lugar de Baixo Marina
Ponta do Sol plans to reopen the Lugar de Baixo marina, turning the failed project into a seaside leisure area by 2027 at the latest.
Should Madeira Spread Tourism Beyond Crowded Hotspots?
Sustainability consultant Paulo Brehm warns Madeira must rethink tourism, guiding visitors to less-crowded areas, involving residents, and considering a single regional tax.
Madeira Housing Values Rise 18.1% in One Year
In 2025, bank valuations for housing in Madeira increased 18.1% year-on-year.