AECO, the Association for the Study and Conservation of the Oceans, is an organization dedicated to ocean conservation, research and education. Its work brings together practical conservation activities and opportunities for people to learn about and engage with the marine environment. AECO offers nautical training through its nautical school, alongside educational initiatives such as Crescer pelo Mar and Crescer pelo Mar 2.0. Its programs also include environmental awareness, education for citizenship, conservation actions and research, supported by a multimedia library.

The association shares information about its projects and activities, including volunteer initiatives, campaigns to care for coastal waters and cleanup efforts in the Ria Formosa. Its work has also featured a photographic exhibition titled “A Sea of Plastic,” a sea club, and opportunities for members to share a boat. AECO publishes updates on ocean-related research and public events, including a study examining the human perspective on recent interactions between orcas and sailing boats. Through training, outreach and conservation projects, AECO encourages wider participation in protecting the oceans.