The first edition of “Trocas em Faro” at the University of Algarve (UAlg) welcomed a full house on 21 February, with over 70 participants gathering at the Penha Campus for an afternoon dedicated to sharing, sustainability and conscious consumption.
Recently integrated into the European University of the Seas (SEA-EU) framework at UAlg, this community-driven initiative — originally launched in 2020 — is now strengthening its impact through a closer connection with the university environment and its surrounding region. The event at UAlg marked an important step in bringing together students, staff and the wider community around the principles of the circular economy.
The session was attended by the Pro-Rector for Sustainability, Vânia Sousa, underlining the strategic relevance of initiatives that actively engage communities in more sustainable and responsible practices. The initiative also benefited from the support of the UAlg V+ Group, whose involvement will continue in future editions, reinforcing a strong culture of volunteering and participation within the academic community.
At its core, “Trocas em Faro” promotes a simple yet powerful concept: exchanging instead of consuming. Participants were invited to bring up to ten items — including clothing, footwear, books or accessories — and exchange them for others, encouraging reuse and reducing waste. This model, already well established in the region, found a natural home within the university setting, fostering direct engagement with sustainability in practice.
Held at the Civil Engineering Building of the Institute of Engineering (ISE), the event created an open and inclusive space where different audiences could connect, interact and contribute to a shared goal: promoting more conscious lifestyles.
Taking place on the third Saturday of each month, “Trocas em Faro” will continue its regular schedule at UAlg. Tokens received during each session remain valid for future editions, as well as for exchange markets in Quelfes and São Brás de Alportel. Participation includes a symbolic contribution of €1, with proceeds supporting local associations and community projects.
The next edition is scheduled for 21 March, continuing to build momentum and strengthen the link between the university and society through practical, community-based sustainability actions.
By embracing “Trocas em Faro”, SEA-EU further reinforces its commitment to sustainability, social responsibility and meaningful engagement with local communities — translating shared European values into tangible action on campus and beyond.
