The Future of Education

In the context of the 2030 Agenda, natural parks are increasingly recognized as spaces that mediate between science, society, and nature, contributing to the promotion of Sustainable Development (SD). This study focused on analysing institutional perceptions regarding the contribution of the Gaia Biological Park (PBG) to the promotion of SD, specifically examining interview results obtained from directors of the Department of Environment and Urban Parks of the Municipality of Vila Nova de Gaia. The research followed a qualitative case study approach, using semi-structured interviews conducted with directors directly involved in the management of the PBG. The sample comprised three directors (n=3), corresponding to 60.0% of the department’s leadership. Results reveal institutional consensus concerning the role of the PBG as a space promoting sustainable development, with all interviewees (n=3; 100.0%) stating that the park’s activities predominantly align with this domain. All participants (n=3; 100.0%) also demonstrated familiarity with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and identified SDGs 4 (Quality Education), 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and 15 (Life on Land) as the most represented within park activities, indicated by two interviewees (n=2; 66.6%), while one director (n=1; 33.3%) explicitly added SDG 13 (Climate Action). In terms of institutional governance, all interviewees (n=3; 100.0%) stressed the importance of strengthening collaboration between municipal departments and developing partnerships with universities, companies, and the local community, also recognizing the need for strategic instruments ensuring continuity of activities. An optimistic perception regarding the continuity of park initiatives despite political changes also prevails among all participants (n=3; 100.0%). The findings indicate that the PBG is institutionally recognized as a relevant agent for local sustainability promotion, contributing to environmental literacy, visitor diversification, and reinforcement of territorial identity associated with conservation and environmental education. These results reinforce the role of natural parks as strategic instruments of local governance for sustainability and highlight the importance of Science Communication in consolidating environmental citizenship practices.