"Montado", landscape and ecosystem
The cork oak forest - known as "montado" - is one of the most emblematic landscapes in Portugal, especially in Alentejo and Ribatejo, constituting a particular ecosystem, created by man.
The cork oak is formed by forests of holm oaks, cork oaks, oaks or chestnut trees, with a very delicate balance and which only exist in the Mediterranean, Algeria, Morocco and above all in the south of the Iberian Peninsula. This multifunctional system has its structural component in trees, with two species of oak standing out: the cork oak and the holm oak. It is around them that this semi-natural ecosystem develops with high levels of diversity.
The "montado" contributes to the preservation of biodiversity and the survival of many species of native fauna, some in danger of extinction. Its importance is equally noticeable in fixing CO2, regulating the hydrological cycle and preventing environmental and social desertification.
"Montados" form cultural landscapes, systems that resulted from human action through the use of different resources: cork, fruits for animal feed, pastures or agricultural crops.
According to WWF - World Wild Fund for Nature, more than one hundred thousand people in southern Europe and northern Africa depend directly and indirectly on these forests.
The importance of the "montado" *
"Montado" is a type of land exploitation characteristic of the South of Portugal that combines cork oak and holm oak forests with agriculture and livestock farming. Discover some of the reasons for the importance of the cerrado, especially its ability to stop the progress of desertification:
Barrier between the desert and Europe
Due to the tree cover that maintains some degree of humidity, it prevents soil erosion and there is no risk of fire because the trees are dispersed, the accumulation of organic matter and water storage in the soil and the resistance to fire, more than any other crop , the Cerrado gives the territory in the south of the country greater resilience to climate change and the desertification process.
Reduces water scarcity
By allowing rainwater to infiltrate the soil, the cerrado replenishes groundwater and contributes to the hydrological regulation of the areas where they remain, impacting the surrounding areas.
Carbon sequestration
The organic matter of the soil with pastures, trees and shrub undercover removes carbon dioxide CO2 from the atmosphere even while food derived from animals in the pasture is produced.
Biodiversity
Trees adapted to the Mediterranean environment, biodiverse pastures, patches of bush on slopes and areas with rocks, various levels of vegetation and functional complexity characterize the cork oak forest and make it a biodiversity hotspot, while at the same time giving it resilience and greater resistance to pests and diseases.
Healthier soil
Soil, in addition to land, is made up of a complex community of plants, animals and microbes, being an important reservoir of biodiversity, which regulates greenhouse gas emissions and promotes the health of people, animals and plants. Improving soil functions is a way to combat climate change. In the Cerrado, as it is little disturbed, the soil can have a good functional structure and a lot of biodiversity.
Impact on climate
In addition to carbon sequestration, the Cerrado, compared to intensive and specialized agriculture, needs little water and retains water in the soil, and has contributed to more moderate temperatures and greater amounts of moisture in the soil and atmosphere.
Responsible meat production
The animals are part of the Montado. Correctly balanced with the management and regeneration of trees, cows, pigs and sheep can be produced in the Cerrado. The emission of greenhouse gases by animals is counterbalanced by the sequestration and fixation of CO2 by trees, pasture and soil. The chain of unique products of high gastronomic quality and refinement benefits the region's economy.
Cork
Cork is the bark of the cork oak, 100% vegetable and natural with a range of attributes for applications that no technology has been able to imitate, match or surpass. Portugal, which holds a third of the world's cork oak area, is the largest cork producer in the world, responsible for producing 50% of the world's cork stoppers. A unique asset of our country.
Acorn
Rich in fiber, proteins and antioxidants, gluten-free and with a lipid profile similar to olive oil, acorns are a food with high nutritional value that has been largely wasted in Portugal. Reviving an ancient tradition, today we see acorns being used again as a food supplement, as a gourmet snack after roasting or as an ingredient in regional sweets and bakeries.
Fire risk control
The forest fires that destroy heritage and cause climate change to skyrocket have an enemy in the Montado. Managed by grazing, with scattered trees and little biomass to burn, the Cerrado is excellent for reducing the risk of fire.
Rural tourism and ecotourism
National and international rural tourism in Cerrado landscapes has become increasingly important, as a result of the unique experiences it provides and which meet the greater demand for “eco” activities linked to sustainability.
In Alentejo, tourist experiences have been created with enormous success linked to observation and contact with the Montado, associated artisanal activities, hiking, stargazing, bird watching, gastronomy and hunting.
Cultural heritage
There is evidence of continuity of the Montado throughout History, making it part of the cultural heritage of the Mediterranean and the regional identity of the Alentejo. The Montado is the most iconic landscape in Alentejo, and in part in Ribatejo, a landmark of identity, traditions and customs. The huge patches of cork oaks and holm oaks on rolling plains or small mountains provide a unique landscape that inspires serenity.
* Source: MED Mediterranean Institute for Agriculture, Environment and Development
