Opened in 1998, the Oceanário was the centerpiece of the XXth Century's last World Fair, themed "The Oceans, a Heritage for the Future", and eternally binds Lisbon to the Oceans. With over one million visitors per year, the Oceanário welcomes the largest number of patrons anywhere in the country. While walking through impressive and unforgettable exhibits, visitors are encouraged to learn fascinating things about the oceans and, more importantly, how to make decisions in their daily lives that actively promote the conservation of nature. Like most modern aquaria, the Oceanário continuously develops new educational activities, focused on today's environmental challenges, which are the focus of the company's Mission. This is one of the reasons why the Oceanário supports multiple scientific research projects, most of which focused on conservation of biodiversity and a sustainable use of the oceans. A savvy team of phenomenal biologists and engineers also ensures the exhibits display state of the art technology, as well as unsurpassed animal welfare. This team is, in fact, hired frequently as consultants to other similar institutions. The Oceanário also assumes, as an intrinsical part of its corporate growth, the implementation of an Integrated Management and Quality System. This philosophy granted the Oceanário the status of first public aquarium in Europe, to get a 9001, 14001 and EMAS (Eco-Management and Audit Scheme) certifications.