The F/262 – International Photography Festival officially began its programme with the initiative “Cuidar as Margens”, an environmental clean-up and awareness action held on April 19 at the Óbidos Lagoon.

This first activation marks the starting point of the festival’s sustainability platform and the Circular Culture Lab, a core axis of the project that connects photography, territory and environmental responsibility.

Around 70 participants joined the action, resulting in the collection of approximately 548 kg of waste, including:

• Plastic: 135 kg
• Glass: 16 kg
• Wood: 55 kg
• General waste: 320 kg
• Paper: 3 kg
• Metal: 19 kg

More than a clean-up, “Cuidar as Margens” set the tone for what the festival stands for: a collective gesture that brings together community, culture and environmental action.

The initiative was promoted by F/SOS – Photography, Solidarity and Social Works, in collaboration with local partners including the Parish Council of Foz do Arelho, the Parish Council of Nadadouro, Lindomar – Foz do Arelho, Brigada do Mar, AALO – Association Acting for Óbidos Lagoon, Ágora – Environmental Association, Associação PATO, Ordem do Trevo, the Social Services of Caldas da Rainha Municipality and SMAS, and the Municipality of Caldas da Rainha (Environment Department).

The action was also part of the 6th edition of the Plogging Challenge Portugal, with F/SOS acting as a local organiser, joining a nationwide movement that promotes environmental awareness through collective action.

However, this moment represents more than participation in a national initiative, it signals the beginning of a wider programme.

Through the Circular Culture Lab, the F/262 Festival will continue to develop exhibitions, environmental actions, educational activities and community-driven initiatives, reinforcing the role of culture as a catalyst for sustainable transformation.

“Cuidar as Margens” is the first step.

More actions will follow.