AIMM – Marine Environment Research Association

AIMM – Marine Environment Research Association is a Portuguese environmental non-governmental, not-for-profit organisation founded in 2010 by young marine biologists united by their passion for the ocean. Headquartered in the Algarve region, AIMM focuses on the research and conservation of marine species and ecosystems along Portugal's southern coastline and beyond. The organisation's scientific work centres on marine megafauna — including cetaceans, sea turtles, and sharks — with daily boat surveys carried out aboard its research vessel Ketos whenever sea conditions allow. AIMM employs acoustic monitoring, drone technology, and photo-identification methods to gather data that supports conservation knowledge and policy. Its research team includes marine biologists, ecologists, and scientific illustrators holding advanced academic degrees from Portuguese and international universities. Beyond research, AIMM runs environmental education projects aimed at a wide range of audiences and offers a Dolphin Research Internship programme that has attracted participants from across Europe and beyond. The organisation participates in joint oceanic expeditions with partner institutions and governments, contributing scientific evidence that has influenced political decisions on marine life protection. AIMM has established partnerships with organisations such as Instituto Meros do Brasil and Biosfera Cabo Verde, and has hosted international symposia on ocean conservation. In 2022, founder and executive director Joana Castro received the prestigious Terre de Femmes Award in recognition of her work with AIMM. The association relies on donations, equipment support, and community engagement to sustain its research and conservation programmes, and is committed to being a lasting reference for marine science, education, and stewardship in Portugal.