COMUNIDADES E UNIDADES DE CONSERVAÇÃO: CONFLITOS SOCIOAMBIENTAIS DE SEGUNDA ORDEM NO ENTORNO DO PARQUE NACIONAL DO CAPARAÓ

Abstract

Socioenvironmental conflicts are associated to restrictions to territories or to the use of natural resources. They are commonly identified in communities surrounding protected areas. This article is based on a case study at the Patrimônio da Penha community, near the Serra do Caparaó National Park, state of Espírito Santo. It was based on literature review, direct observation and semi-structured interviews. The research results show that, beyond first order conflicts (ex. restriction to hunting or tree cutting), it was possible to identify second order conflicts (changes in toponymy, restriction to the use of traditional paths etc.). This type of conflict occurs as result to changes in the social dynamics within the communities, due to the presence of the National Park. Second order conflicts have been characterised by involving mainly local inhabitants and for their higher latency. The conceptualisation and discussion of this type of conflict indicates the complexity of the effects of the creation of reserves. More studies on the topic are necessary for improving the management of protected areas.