GENESIS EVENT

 OCTOBER 7 TO 10, 2025

UNIVERSITY OF MADEIRA’S JESUIT COLLEGE

FUNCHAL, MADEIRA, PORTUGAL

Dive into the Future of Water Resilience: GENESIS 2025 in Madeira

From October 7–10, 2025, the breathtaking island of Madeira will host a landmark gathering at the intersection of innovation, sustainability, and nature-based solutions. GENESIS—Geologically Enhanced NaturE-based Solutions for climate change resiliency of critical water InfraStructure—is charting a bold course toward a sustainable water future, and you’re invited to witness it firsthand.

Set against Madeira’s lush landscapes and volcanic beauty, this event will showcase cutting-edge approaches to protecting and enhancing water infrastructures on islands where every drop counts. From dry gallery systems to underground dike-impounded dams, alongside rainwater harvesting, wetland restoration, and wastewater reuse, GENESIS demonstrates how science, innovation, and nature converge to secure resilient water supplies.

Attendees will explore how synergistic nature-based solutions can mitigate climate change impacts, enhance groundwater-dependent systems, and empower local communities. Over four days, participants will engage with hands-on demonstrations, inspiring discussions, and a deep dive into nine large-scale NbS projects across Macaronesia. These efforts aim to expand water storage, benefit local populations, and create a blueprint for sustainable water management globally.

Join scientists, local authorities, farmers, technicians, and policymakers as they unite to redefine water infrastructure for the future. Experience the blend of cutting-edge research, real-world impact, and the unparalleled beauty of Madeira—where innovation flows as naturally as the island’s streams.

GENESIS 2025: Innovating water infrastructures, restoring balance, and building resilience for a sustainable tomorrow.

ABOUT FUNCHAL

As the capital of the Autonomous Region of Madeira and situated on the south coast of the island, in a beautiful bay bearing the same name, Funchal received its first charter in the mid-15th century, with its name originating from “funcho,” a common aromatic herb in this region.

Rich in history, cosmopolitan, and with a fantastic life of its own, Funchal has much to see and admire today, starting with the historic cores of its parishes such as São Pedro, Santa Maria, or Sé, which invite pleasant strolls. Funchal also offers a strong cultural component, encompassing museums and cultural spaces of equal interest.

Not to be missed is the Mercado dos Lavradores, where the flavors and aromas of fruits and flowers blend with the usual hustle and bustle of a market.

Known as a “garden by the sea,” Funchal boasts green spaces such as the Botanical Garden or the Quinta do Palheiro Ferreiro Garden, both featuring plants from all corners of the world.

There’s nothing like a cable car ride to better appreciate the beauty of the city and its surroundings, with the option to take the cable car connecting Monte to the Botanical Garden or the city center. Once in Monte, a ride in the “basket car” is a must.

Back in the city center, you can stroll through Funchal Marina and take the opportunity to admire the sailboats and, further ahead, the cruise ships from various destinations.

ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF MADEIRA (UMa)

UMa aims to find suitable solutions within a framework of responsibility, equity, and sustainability, contributing to the development and affirmation of Madeira and the country in a globalized and dynamic world.

UMa pursues activities of scientific research, promoting the dissemination and social and economic valorization of knowledge and technological innovation. It ensures human formation at the highest level, in its cultural, scientific, artistic, technical, and professional aspects, offering cycles of studies leading to academic degrees, CTeSP, and other non-degree courses. It seeks to prepare its students for the challenges of global society and lifelong learning, imparting scientific knowledge, technical competence, and cross-disciplinary education.

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