Background Calcareous habitats are characteristically alkaline. Calcareous literally means being mostly or partly composed of calcium carbonate, or in other words, containing lime or being chalky. Calcareous conditions are of vital importance for the conservation of several taxa and their habitats. The SCI of Serra de Aires e Candeeiros includes one of Portugal’s best examples of the biological diversity of calcareous habitats. However, these habitats are facing strong pressure from land-use changes, including increases in forestry and extractive industries, and the gradual abandonment of pastoral activities. These emerging pressures encourage the progression of calcareous grasslands and rocky habitats into sub-shrub and bush habitats. This evolution undermines the conservation of the mosaic of habitats that provide important calcareous conditions for specific species. Objectives This LIFE project’s objective is to demonstrate a methodology for the conservation of priority calcareous habitats in the Natura 2000 site, “Serra de Aire e Candeeiros.” The project aims to restore 1 000 ha of calcareous habitats and, indirectly, ensure the protection of non-priority habitats for the conservation of threatened flora and fauna. The targeted habitats include: Rupicolous calcareous or basophilic grasslands of the Alysso-Sedion albi; Semi-natural dry grasslands and scrubland facies on calcareous substrates (Festuco-Brometalia), which are important orchid sites; Pseudo-steppe with grasses and annuals of the Thero-Brachypodietea and limestone pavements. Specific actions of the project will include the promotion of extensive grazing through the establishment and contracted management of two goat herds of around 400 animals. The mosaic of habitats will be assured by limitations on grazing where there are species in need of protection or within natural thickets. Ten micro-reserves for endemic flora and rocky habitats will also be created. The project also intends to develop best practices related to the sustainable exploitation of certified products such as lamb, cheese and aromatic and medicinal herbs and condiments. Such a sustainable dynamic economy will ensure the conservation of these priority habitats in the long term. Expected results: Conservation and restoration of 1 000 hectares of priority habitats, including calcareous and dry grasslands and limestone pavements; Protection of the biological diversity of 400 contiguous hectares; Managed grazing using about 400 goats; The creation of ten micro-reserves; Best practices methodology for sustainable exploitation of natural resources.