Why in news?
Portugal came into focus recently as it hosted an international climate summit emphasising the vulnerability of Mediterranean countries to extreme weather. Delegates discussed how Portugal’s unique geography and natural resources shape its environmental policies.
Background
Portugal occupies the western portion of the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe. Covering about 92,090 km², it is bordered by the North Atlantic Ocean to the west and south and by Spain to the north and east. The nation includes the mid‑Atlantic archipelagos of the Azores and Madeira. Portugal is one of Europe’s oldest nation‑states and has a long maritime history, having pioneered exploration routes during the 15th and 16th centuries.
Physical geography
- Coastline and boundaries: Portugal has a coastline of about 1,793 km and shares a land border of 1,224 km solely with Spain.
- Terrain: The country is divided by the Tagus River. North of the Tagus are mountains and deep valleys, including the Serra da Estrela range, while the south consists of rolling plains and low hills.
- Highest point: Mount Pico in the Azores rises to 2,351 m, making it Portugal’s highest peak.
- Rivers: Major rivers such as the Douro, Tagus and Guadiana originate in Spain and flow westward through Portugal before reaching the Atlantic. They provide hydropower, irrigation and transportation.
Climate and ecosystems
- Maritime temperate climate: Influenced by the Atlantic Ocean, Portugal experiences mild winters and warm summers. The north is cooler and wetter, receiving around 1,000 mm of rain annually, while the south is hotter and drier.
- Mediterranean vegetation: Evergreen oak, cork oak and olive trees dominate the south. The country is the world’s largest producer of cork.
- Natural hazards: Droughts, forest fires and flooding are recurring challenges. Coastal regions are exposed to sea‑level rise and coastal erosion.
- Natural resources: Portugal’s economy benefits from fish, forests, iron ore, copper, zinc, tungsten, marble, uranium, clay, salt and abundant hydropower potential.
Population and development
- Population distribution: Most people live along the Atlantic coast, particularly in the Lisbon and Porto metropolitan areas. Interior regions are more sparsely populated.
- Sustainable initiatives: Portugal invests in renewable energy, especially wind and solar power. It aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
- Tourism and culture: Historic cities, beaches and culinary traditions attract visitors. The country balances development with preservation of its heritage and ecosystems.
Conclusion
Portugal’s varied landscapes—from rugged mountains to sun‑drenched plains—shape its economy, culture and climate resilience. Understanding its geography helps explain the nation’s emphasis on renewable energy, sustainable agriculture and flood management. Continued investment in environmental protection will ensure that Portugal remains both prosperous and ecologically rich.
Source: News On Air · Encyclopaedia Britannica