In addition to reducing the human effort and energy consumption associated with traditional mowing of lawn areas, livestock grazing also contributes to enhancing the ecosystem services of pastures: livestock allow for an increase in soil organic matter, since it increases its relative humidity and thus contributes to soil stabilization and erosion control.

Switching from the mechanical use of cutting machines to flocking sheep reduces energy consumption, which also contributes to the reduction of CO2 emissions. 

Although the ovil is located in Bela Vista Park, relocations to other green areas of the city are planned. 

This action, innovative in an urban environment, implies an evaluation of the results to determine its viability and benefits to the green infrastructure. 

• Installing a sheepfold in Bela Vista 

To ensure the safety and viability of the flock action, there needs to be a support structure to keep the sheep overnight, support daily management, and also to support some outreach/awareness activities. 

• Flock grazing at Bela Vista Park 

The daily management of the flock in a public space requires a specialized shepherd service, which provides information about the project and explains the importance and advantages of using the flock in green spaces;

Fences are also needed to ensure the safety of sheep and citizens (visitors) in the meadows.

• Herd grazing on other green spaces

It is planned to take the sheep out to other areas with meadows, namely to the Alto da Ajuda park and Vale de Chelas and its surroundings. In these cases, the flock is transported to the locations to graze during the day, returning at dusk to Bela Vista.