Route 3: Estádio do Dragão and São Roque Park

08/11/2024

These were the locations chosen for another edition of the “Roteiros com ImPacto.” The event, held on November 8, showcased the commitment to managing key infrastructures in the city with sustainable practices and innovative solutions that reduce the carbon footprint, improve urban quality of life, and contribute to a more sustainable future.

The Vice-President welcomed participants at the entrance of the Museu do Futebol Clube do Porto (FC Porto Museum), saying: “The Municipality of Porto’s ambition to achieve carbon neutrality is only possible with the involvement of highly committed, active, and dynamic stakeholders, as seen in the Porto Climate Pact. Today, we have an excellent example of sustainable solutions being implemented in the management of sports infrastructures,” stated Filipe Araújo.

Estádio do Dragão: From Sports to Environmental Concern

Built between 2002 and 2004 with a capacity of 50,000 spectators, Estádio do Dragão is both an architectural landmark in an urban setting and a facility incorporating innovative technologies. Guided by Teresa Santos (Sustainability Manager), Ricardo Carvalho (Infrastructure Director), and Tiago Gouveia (Marketing Director), participants learned about all the stadium’s sustainability features.

Throughout the tour, several technologies were highlighted for their positive impacts—from the use of hydric fibers in the stadium’s pitch to protect and drain water, to measures aiming to reduce energy consumption and optimize water management.

The commitment to sustainability and carbon reduction goes further, involving micro energy production and the creation of two Renewable Energy Communities that encompass both Estádio do Dragão and the Olival Training Center, which achieved 60% self-consumption in August of this year. As part of its sustainability responsibilities, FC Porto is transitioning to LED lighting and acquiring more energy-efficient, eco-friendly equipment. Teresa Santos also introduced the stadium’s Waste Management Center and several policies—from recycling to material reuse, including the use of reusable cups by fans.

Regarding the club’s carbon footprint, challenges remain—fan mobility is the largest environmental impact. Efforts are underway through the European “Gemini” project in partnership with the Municipality of Porto (via Porto Digital), the Public Security Police (PSP), Metro do Porto, and STCP (Porto’s bus company) to find solutions and encourage greater use of public transport.

São Roque Park: From Heritage to Landscape Architecture

São Roque Park, located in the eastern part of the city, is part of a continuous green corridor that includes the Alameda de Cartes Park, Francisco Sá Carneiro Square, and Corujeira Square. This prime location is a remarkable example of how urban spaces can be sustainably revitalized.

Originally part of the old Quinta da Bela Vista estate (purchased by Porto City Council in 1979), it has undergone multiple expansions through land acquisitions and transfers. After the visit to Estádio do Dragão, José Franco and Celeste Robalo, from the City Council’s Green Spaces Department, led the tour here. They explained the various ways the land has been adapted to improve water drainage, ensuring user safety and comfort.

The park is divided into terraces and offers a variety of spaces, such as leisure and rest areas, viewing points, lakes, and retention basins to prevent flooding. Visitors can observe unique native species—including cork oaks, pedunculate oaks, chestnut trees, and eucalyptus. During the walk, participants saw several trees planted as part of the Porto Climate Pact by its signatories, located in the newly expanded 1.2 hectares of publicly accessible green space added in 2021.

The visit to São Roque Park culminated in the discovery of unique spaces that blend art, nature, culture, and sustainability in perfect harmony. The walk ended near Casa São Roque, highlighting an area of unique and unmistakable beauty.