SOCIEDADE & NATUREZA Journal is published by the Instituto de Geografia of the Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, being a vehicle for recording and scientific dissemination, its objectives are: publish unpublished critical review works on a topic pertinent to Geography and related areas or the result of research of an empirical nature, experimental or conceptual; encourage the exchange of experience in their specialty with other institutions, national or foreign, that maintain similar publications; defend and respect the principles of pluralism of philosophical, political and scientific ideas. There are no costs for authors regarding the submission and publication of articles (article processing charges (APCs) / article submission charges).
Authors hold the Copyright for articles published in this journal, and the journal holds the right for first publication. Because they appear in a public access journal, articles are licensed under Creative Commons Attribution (BY), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Geomorphological mapping as a tool for environmental management: a case study in the municipality of São Benedito, Ceará, Brazil
Recognizing the current global situation regarding the crises caused by climate change, land use planning is seen as a tool with high potential for adapting to and mitigating the effects of such changes on natural elements, as well as a way to prevent environmental degradation (Ross, 2006). This study, aimed at supporting the planning and land use planning of São Benedito, a municipality located on the Ibiapaba Plateau in the state of Ceará, conducts geomorphological mapping based on Ross's (1992) methodology. To this end, climatic, pedological, and geological mapping is consulted, correlated with data from the last demographic census, and the forms and types of land use and occupation are analyzed through field visits. Six units with similar landform patterns were mapped for the municipality, distinguishing sixteen landform types, varying among denudational, flattened, and aggradational forms. By specifying the predominant processes in each unit, detailing relief characteristics provided by the active processes, we sought to generate knowledge about the geomorphological diversity on the Ibiapaba plateau and, above all, to support possible environmental planning initiatives in the municipality.
Copyright (c) 2024 Maria Vitória Rodrigues Lopes, Falcão https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
New Technologies and the Teaching of Quaternary Geomorphology at the State University of Maranhão – UEMA
Technological advances have brought countless changes to the way we see, think, and act in current society. Formal education has faced significant challenges in the face of the various changes related to generational transition of students and the advent of cyberculture. The linear views previously adopted in formal education no longer allow us to comprehend current social phenomena, or to explain the impacts of digital connectivity on society. Therefore, it is imperative that educators continuously adapt and refine their pedagogical strategies to ensure effective knowledge dissemination. This study aims to analyze the use of new educational technologies in the teaching of Quaternary Geomorphology in the undergraduate and graduate Geography courses at the State University of Maranhão. In order to achieve the proposed objective, the research was guided by the following stages: bibliographical survey, choice of educational technologies according to the subjects covered in the discipline, preparation of material for the classes and application of the technologies in the classroom. The main educational technologies used were: Geoguessr, Google Earth, Google Forms, Kahoot, LandscapAR, Nearpod, Virtual Reality Glasses, Padlet, Prezi and Wordwall. The inclusion of new educational technologies in this subject has made it more tangible and practical, with concepts that are close to reality and promote the students' creative process, which has made the subject increasingly interesting. There has been greater student attendance at classes and greater commitment to the activities, as well as real-time assessments and feedback during the online games.
Copyright (c) 2024 José Fernando Rodrigues Bezerra, Danyella Vale Barros França, Antonio José Teixeira Guerra, Maria do Carmo Oliveira Jorge https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Influence of Tourism Centers on the Diversity of Uses, Management Practices, and Traditional Knowledge of the Buriti Palm (Mauritia flexuosa)
The sustainable use of non-timber forest products is essential for conserving biodiversity while supporting the livelihoods of traditional communities. The research was conducted in the Lençóis Maranhenses region (Maranhão State, Brazil), an area characterized by intense tourism activity and recognized as one of the main centers of buriti (Mauritia flexuosa) fiber extraction in Northeast Brazil. These features make the region a privileged setting to understand: how proximity to tourism hubs affects the diversity of uses, management practices, and the preservation of traditional knowledge associated with the buriti palm? Semi-structured interviews were conducted with extractives in municipalities with different levels of access to the tourism market. The municipality with the highest tourist influx showed lower diversity of uses (16 uses; H = 60.07; p < 0.01), a predominance of commercial applications (UDV for food = 0.645), a shorter interval between leaf collections (52 days), and a higher incidence of destructive harvesting practices (33%). In contrast, municipalities less integrated into tourism routes preserved a greater diversity of uses. Management practices were predominantly non-destructive, although signs of erosion of these practices were observed in areas with moderate tourism influence. Women play a central role throughout the production chain. It is concluded that tourism, although it enhances income generation and cultural visibility, promotes economic specialization and weakens traditional knowledge, increasing the risks of unsustainable resource use. Conservation strategies should integrate the strengthening of local economies with the recognition of traditional knowledge and the regulation of resource exploitation in territories under tourism pressure.
Socioecological sustainability Ethnobotany
Copyright (c) 2024 Irlaine Rodrigues Vieira, Arika Virapongse, Jefferson Soares de Oliveira, Roseli Farias Melo de Barros https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Deforestation in Areas of Higher Suitability Does Not Imply Greater Productivity: The Mismatch Between Environmental and Economic Sustainability in the Cerrado
The expansion of agriculture in the Cerrado has led to the highest deforestation rates in Brazil. The conversion of these areas is not only linked to biodiversity loss and the decline of ecosystem services but also does not result in increased agricultural productivity. Considering the Matopiba region— zone of the Cerrado with the highest deforestation rate in the biome—maintaining the current deforestation rate in areas of highest agricultural productivity will lead to the disappearance of native vegetation within the next decade. This land-use conversion is not driven by economic potential, as the most suitable areas for agriculture are predominantly occupied by livestock farming, a less profitable activity, indicating allocative inefficiency. Of the total 18.17 Mha already in use within lands suitable for agriculture, 12.75 Mha are occupied by livestock farmings, with no substantial economic contribution from livestock. Given the need to maintain agricultural productivity in the face of constant market demand, it is essential to establish environmental policies that promote both economic and environmental sustainability. To ensure sustainable growth, environmental policies should leverage land suitabilitys data to boost productivity, direct agricultural financing, and enforce stricter land-use rules—shifting crop expansion from native vegetation to livestock farming conversion in high-suitability areas. Additionally, to prevent the complete elimination of the Cerrado in these areas, it is crucial to establish a higher proportion of legal reserves as a condition for granting new land-clearing licenses. Here, we suggest 60% for areas of highest agricultural suitability, compared to the 20% required by the current Forest Code (Federal Law No. 12,651 of May 25, 2012), aiming to double the lifespan of remaining native vegetation. The measures proposed here outline a pathway for maintaining and increasing the country's agricultural productivity sustainably, mitigating the major impacts of land-use change on biodiversity and ecosystem services.
Carlos Ernesto Gonçalves Reynaud Schaefer
Copyright (c) 2024 Daniel Meira Arruda, Débora Assumpção e Lima, Fabio Soares de Oliveira, Carlos Ernesto Gonçalves Reynaud Schaefer https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Intersection of Culture, Identity, and Urban Planning: The Case of Boa Vista, Roraima within the Amazonian Context
This research analyzed the relationships between culture, identity, and urban planning in Boa Vista, Roraima. The study was based on the idea that urban planning transcends the spatial structure of cities and influences cultural and social elements, particularly in the Amazon region. The objective was to analyze how local cultural forces and external influences influenced the urbanization process and the obstacles resulting from real estate speculation and the capitalist system. The approach was grounded in a critical analysis of the literature, encompassing research on sustainability, urban planning, and ancestral land management practices in the Amazon. This research helped to understand the connection between traditional peoples and territory, showing how accelerated urbanization negatively impacted sustainability and quality of life. The results indicated that the disorderly expansion of Boa Vista disregarded traditional knowledge, resulting in environmental degradation. The intensive exploitation of natural resources led to a decrease in biodiversity, river contamination, and the marginalization of indigenous communities. It was concluded that incorporating traditional practices into urban planning could foster a more sustainable and balanced development model. Therefore, this study highlighted the importance of urban planning that considers the environment and ancestral knowledge, balancing advancement and conservation.
Copyright (c) 2024 Raíssa Fim Almeida, Rachel Camargo de Pinho, Meire Joisy Almeida Pereira https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Same nature, different values: the relational dimension in the valuation of ecosystem services
In recent decades, the ecosystem services approach has gained prominence in the field of environmental conservation by highlighting the connection between human well-being and ecosystem functions. However, critics have pointed out that the predominance of utilitarian and monetary assessments often overlooks the sociocultural and affective values that different social groups attribute to nature. This article explores the relational dimension in the valuation of ecosystem services through the experiences of the Quilombola communities of Cafundá Astrogilda and Dona Bilina, located in the Pedra Branca State Park (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil). The research adopted an interpretivist and sentipensante methodology, combining action research, interviews, and territorial immersion to understand the communities’ perceptions and values regarding nature. Building on the experiences investigated, this study contends that the ecosystem services framework must transcend utilitarian and monetary paradigms. Recognizing the centrality of relational values — such as care, reciprocity, ancestry, and spirituality — in shaping these communities’ relationships with the forest is essential for advancing equitable and enduring conservation efforts. By foregrounding practices and worldviews that conceive of nature as a principle of life, a locus of spiritual connection, and a source of knowledge, this research establishes the basis for a more integrated and pluralistic approach within the field. Such a perspective not only fosters the development of fairer and more culturally grounded conservation practices but also constitutes an act of intellectual decolonization — one capable of informing social policies and institutional decision-making toward the resolution of socio-environmental conflicts through the recognition of cultural and epistemic diversity.
Copyright (c) 2024 Ingrid Almeida de Barros Pena, Helena Neri Alves Pinto, Agnieszka Ewa Latawiec https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Evapotranspiration Behavior of Eucalyptus Plantations Compared to Other Land Uses and Land Covers in the Semiarid Zone of Brazil – South America
Water consumption by evapotranspiration (ET) of eucalyptus plantations is a concern widely addressed worldwide. However, in the semiarid region of Brazil, a region characterized by recurring water deficit, there is a gap in the knowledge on the effects of eucalyptus plantations on ET dynamics. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the ET rates of eucalyptus to native forests, savannas (Cerrado), dry woodlands (caatingas), pastures, and croplands in the Brazilian semiarid region (BSR). The methodological structure followed the use of remote sensing techniques and statistical tests. From the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform, monthly and annual ET images for 2022 were obtained from the MOD16A2 product. The results of this study indicated that eucalyptus had significantly higher ET rates (Kruskal-Wallis test followed by the Dunn test; p-value <0.05) compared to most classes. Exceptionally, native forests (Atlantic Forest) exhibited statistically similar (p-value >0.05) water consumption to eucalyptus. Worryingly, eucalyptus, as well as crops, maintained high ET rates during the dry season in the study region. These findings may inform water planning strategies in the Brazilian semiarid region, especially by indicating environmentally sensitive areas for high-impact eucalyptus plantations, where such activity should be restricted. Thus, this study provides substantial information for more sustainable agro-environmental development in semiarid zones.
Copyright (c) 2024 Marcos Esdras Leite, Samuel Carlos Santos Marques, Lucas Augusto Pereira da Silva, Cristiano Marcelo Pereira de Souza, Mario Marcos Espirito Santo, Maria das Dores Magalhães Veloso https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Interpretive Narratives of Geoheritage: Experiences in French Geoparks
This article investigates interpretive panels at geosites in three French geoparks, aiming to understand how different narrative strategies communicate aspects of geoheritage. The research adopts a qualitative approach, based on a critical analysis of 17 panels collected in the field. The theoretical framework is grounded in the heritage typology proposed by Doumit (2007), which identifies five narrative dimensions — scientific, historical, symbolic, artistic, and sensory — along with an analytical framework encompassing four interpretive approaches: educational, communicational, discursive, and integrative. The results indicate a predominance of the scientific/natural dimension in the analyzed panels, highlighting an emphasis on technical and geological aspects. However, in some cases, there is articulation with other dimensions, such as historical, symbolic, and sensory, especially when the content relates to social practices, local memories, or cultural elements. These connections enrich the interpretive experience and provide a more contextualized reading of the territory. Regarding interpretive approaches, educational and communicational orientations prevail, focusing on technical explanations and visual resources, which help make scientific content accessible to diverse audiences but tend to limit active visitor participation. In contrast, discursive and integrative approaches — which encourage visitors to co-construct meaning and foster emotional connections to places — are less frequent, indicating an underexplored potential. The discussion proposes a reflection on the role of interpretive devices as cultural mediators of territory, emphasizing their capacity to construct meaning, promote belonging, and strengthen the relationship between communities, landscapes, and local heritage. By combining knowledge, memory, and experience, such devices can contribute to broader processes of social valorization and appropriation of geoheritage. The study also engages with Brazilian experiences and reinforces the importance of interpretive strategies that integrate multiple heritage dimensions through more sensitive and participatory approaches. It advocates for cultural mediation that promotes community involvement, a sense of belonging, and actions oriented toward sustainability, thereby enhancing the social and educational impacts of geoparks.
Copyright (c) 2024 Úrsula Ruchkys de Azevedo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Environmental Governance and Degradation Dynamics in the Cerrado – Brazilian Biome: Empirical and Institutional Evidence in the State of Tocantins
Environmental degradation in tropical biomes has become one of the main contemporary challenges, requiring integrated institutional responses based on evidence. This article analyzes the dynamics of environmental degradation in the Cerrado biome, with an emphasis on the state of Tocantins, during the period between 2013 and 2023. The investigation is based on the finding that deforestation, wildfires, and environmental infractions show significant recurrence in this territory, forming spatiotemporal patterns that demand greater institutional coordination and the strengthening of environmental governance. The research adopts a mixed methodological approach, integrating content analysis and statistical techniques, based on secondary data extracted from government websites and platforms that provide auditable and open-access data. The data were organized into time series, converted and standardized to ensure comparability among the analyzed indicators. The results highlight the significant contribution of the state of Tocantins to vegetation suppression processes in the Cerrado (Brazilian biome), both in deforested area and in burned extent, in addition to the concentration of environmental infraction notices issued in the federative unit. Limitations were also identified in the structure of administrative records, such as overlapping codifications and terminological inconsistencies, which compromise the categorization of infringing conduct. The analysis reinforces the need to strengthen environmental governance through integration among federative entities, the qualification of monitoring systems, and the formulation of territorially focused public policies based on technical evidence and aimed at the conservation of the Cerrado (Brazilian biome) ecosystems.
Copyright (c) 2024 Silvânia Gonçalves de Carvalho, Daniela Mascarenhas de Queiroz Trevisan, David Prata, Diego Rodrigues, Waldecy Rodrigues, Leonardo de Andrade Carneiro, Gentil Barbosa, Marcelo Lisboa, Ana Flavia Moreira Pires https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Statistical Analysis of Bathing Water Quality Parameters in a Lagoon Influenced by Estuarine Dynamics
This study investigates Lagoa dos Patos's bathing water quality parameters, located in Pelotas, focusing on assessing the influence of estuarine conditions. Statistical analysis was conducted on water quality data from 2015 to 2022, with parameters including Escherichia coli, turbidity, organic matter, phosphorus, and chlorides. Two principal components were extracted using the Kaiser criterion and cumulative variance threshold, revealing significant correlations between chloride concentrations and various water quality parameters. The results indicate that salinity, represented by chlorides, plays a critical role in influencing water quality, particularly in brackish water conditions. Notably, Escherichia coli concentrations showed a reversal of correlation direction at higher salinity levels, suggesting potential limitations in using the microbiological indicator in estuarine environments. Furthermore, significantly higher levels of organic matter were observed in brackish water, likely due to anthropogenic inputs such as effluent discharge. These findings highlight the importance of considering alternative water quality indicators in estuarine areas, as traditional microbiological markers may not fully reflect the environmental dynamics of these systems. This study provides valuable insights for decision-makers in managing water quality and public health in coastal and estuarine regions. Furthermore, this research aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals, notably Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), by improving water quality and addressing pollution. It also supports Goal 14 (Life Below Water) by examining the impact of environmental factors on coastal ecosystems, Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by highlighting the importance of water quality for public health, and Goal 13 (Climate Action) due to the influence of environmental changes on salinity.
Copyright (c) 2024 Daniele Martin Sampaio, Rubia Flores Romani, Cícero de Coelho Escobar, Pascal Silas Thue, Hartur Xavier Pinheiro, Maicon Oliveira Luiz https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Territoriality and Heritage in Ibiraquera: Social Cartography of an Azorian Community
Coastal artisanal fishing communities possess an invaluable historical, cultural, and natural heritage, whose relationship with their traditional territories is not evident. Established from generation to generation, they carry with them a rich historical and cultural heritage, as well as integrating important natural features. By addressing the question "How does historical, cultural, and natural heritage express a sense of territoriality for Azorean coastal communities established in southern Brazil?", this research seeks to relate the territory to the people who live there. Thus, data were collected in the community of Ibiraquera, located on the coast of the south-central region of the state of Santa Catarina, through: (i) guided visits to record points of importance and stories; (ii) semi-structured interviews; and (iii) meetings to construct social cartography. Participants were selected using the snowball method, with Quantum Gis (QGIS) software used to create maps. By prioritizing knowledge construction from a popular, symbolic, and cultural perspective, social cartography is a participatory research method in which social actors express their territorialities, desires, and ancestry. Fishing ranches, flour mills, traditional paths, cultural events, and points of historical importance were highlighted as historical, cultural, and natural heritage sites. These assets demonstrated an intrinsic connection between the community and its traditional territories, encompassing both tangible and intangible aspects. Engagement with space, over generations and through its use and appropriation, has provided a sense of territoriality to this traditional population that is closely linked to its heritage.
Copyright (c) 2024 Lara da Silva, Rodrigo Rodrigues de Freitas https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Spatiotemporal Dynamics of Vegetation Cover and Drought Conditions in the Semi-Arid Region of Brazil
Studying a region's spatiotemporal dynamics provides essential data on changes over time, and Remote Sensing facilitates the generation of this data, offering a comprehensive view of transformations in an interest area. This work involves the use of Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) and Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) to provide information on spatiotemporal dynamics of vegetation and drought conditions in Brígida’s River Basin, located in Pernambuco’s state, Brazil, as well as Chapada do Araripe region inserted in the same basin, using nine images from TM Landsat 5 and OLI Landsat 8 satellites on different dates. Precipitation data were obtained from the Climate Hazards Group InfraRed Precipitation with Station (CHIRPS) with a cutout for the Brígida basin from 1990 to 2024. The results allowed to observe temporal pattern of precipitation events every three months through SPI-3, with periods of greater intensity drought and duration for 1991-1993, 1998-1999 and 2012-2017 periods, as well as the changes in the amount of vegetative vigor studied over different dates in the basin, with the image from 06/16/1990 standing out with the highest values of vegetation indices, with results above 0.5 for NDVI and above 0.3 for EVI, especially in the Chapada do Araripe region. It was concluded that the results revealed the impact of precipitation and drought on reducing vegetative vigor over time, providing crucial data for water resource management, water security, and climate change mitigation strategies.
Copyright (c) 2024 Débora Rodrigues Soares, Juliana Farias Santos de Morais, Diego Cezar dos Santos Araújo, Anderson Luiz Ribeiro de Paiva, Leidjane Maria Maciel de Oliveira https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Geomorphological Transformations and Urbanization: Study of the Stages of Anthropogenic Change in the watershed Tiger River (1975-2023)Geomorphological Transformations and Urbanization: Study of the Stages of Anthropogenic Change in the watershed Tiger River (1975-2023)
Human activities have modified the relief since the Paleolithic period, intensifying after the Industrial Revolution, especially in urban areas. This study examines the geomorphological and hydrological transformations that occurred in the Tigre River basin in Erechim, Rio Grande do Sul, over nearly five decades of urbanization. The methodological procedures adopted were structured within a multitemporal approach, enabled by the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and geoprocessing techniques. Cartography, remote sensing, and photointerpretation were applied. This analytical strategy made it possible to classify the different stages of human intervention, investigate changes in river dynamics, and understand the effects of urbanization on local geomorphological and hydrological processes. The results reveal that, by 2023, urban coverage of the basin reached 79.48%, with a predominance of the Active Disturbance and Post-Disturbance stages. These transformations impacted surface and subsurface flows, increasing susceptibility to flooding. Intensified waterproofing, reduced infiltration, and modifications to drainage networks were also observed, all of which compromise the hydrogeomorphological balance. The conclusion is that mitigation measures, such as sustainable management and restoration of riparian vegetation, combined with public urban planning policies, are necessary to contain the effects of urbanization and reduce the risks of landslides, floods, and environmental degradation.
Copyright (c) 2024 André Ricardo Furlan, Romario Trentin, Juçara Spinelli https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Spatial-Temporal Dynamics of Forests in Brazil – Period from 1985 to 2022
This study aims to analyze the spatial-temporal changes in Natural and Planted Forests in Brazil. To achieve this, data provided by MapBiomas was used to examine the development of Brazilian forests between 1985 and 2022. The forests were categorized as either Natural or Planted, highlighting their differences. Natural Forests are characterized by their role in preserving Brazil's biodiversity, while Planted Forests are cultivated primarily for commercial purposes. The data was analyzed using percentage variation and further examined through a paired T-test, the test was used to identify the existence of statistically significant differences between the years of analysis and Location Quotient analysis. The results indicate a positive trend in the growth of Planted Forests, while areas of Natural Forests have decreased across the country. Regarding the T-Test, the results indicated that, on average, the areas of Natural Forests in the Cerrado, Caatinga, Amazon and Atlantic Forest biomes are smaller in 2022 compared to the areas observed for these biomes in 1985. Furthermore, regarding the comparisons of the areas, the test indicated that Planted Forests, on average, in the Cerrado, Amazon, Atlantic Forest, Caatinga and Pampa biomes, are larger in 2022 than the areas observed in these biomes in 1985. Thus, we have a reduction in areas of natural forests in most Brazilian biomes, as well as an increase in areas of planted forests in the same biomes, added to the Pampa biome.
Copyright (c) 2024 Daiany Stéfani Martins Vieira Leite, Luciana Bernardo, Maycon Jorge Ulisses Saraiva Farinha https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Assessment of Pressure Indicators on Protected Areas in the Amazon Coastal Zone - Pará
The Marine Protected Areas (MPA) of the Coastal Zone of Pará form a conglomerate of Protected Areas (PAs) and serve as a tool to combat the improper use of natural resources. This conglomerate of Protected Areas exhibits rich biodiversity and is home to approximately 5,000 families from traditional communities. This study aims to analyze the pressures occurring in 12 MPA in Pará. For this purpose, secondary vector-format data were used to identify pressure indicators, applying Kernel estimation for spatial analysis. To assess the degree of these pressures, the Rapid Assessment and Prioritization of Protected Areas Management (RAPPAM) methodology was used, which calculates the pressure level of activities in MPAs by measuring them in terms of “extent,” “impact,” and “permanence.” The results indicate that the main pressures are fishing, wildfires, deforestation, tourism, and oil exploitation, with the most pressured MPAs being Araí-Peroba and Caeté-Taperaçu, while the least pressured are Soure and Mocapajuba. The study also revealed that the greatest pressures are related to wildfires and fishing and that enforcement and monitoring actions can minimize the identified impacts. The research indicates that pressures on PAs are directly linked to the legal status of these territories.
Copyright (c) 2024 Carolina da Silva Gonçalves, Marcia Aparecida da Silva Pimentel, Milena Marilia Nogueira de Andrade https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Exploring the Usability of Urban Open Spaces, the Nexus between Tourism and Well-being Upticks in a Mixed-use Settlement
Extremely urbanized areas have withstood numerous urban disputes, disturbances, and catastrophes related to urbanization, affecting tourism. This study adopted the European Environment Agency's (EEA) urban greening framework. It aims to create an urban open space conducive to city dwellers and tourists. One of the key features is creating a healthy ecosystem and ensuring that the needs of the park users are considered. A quantitative research methodological approach was used, and five hundred (500) copies of the questionnaire were sent out to respondents, who included park users, tourists/visitors, homeowners, and traders. A total of 422 correctly completed copies of the questionnaire were retrieved and used for analysis. Thus, an 84,4% questionnaire administration and retrieval success rate was achieved. The data collected were analyzed using simple percentages and frequency counts for demographic, building type, income, employment, and risk impact information about the respondents and the proposed urban intervention. On-site assessment of the urban area was captured using Google Maps to acquire updated land use data and aerial imagery of the study area. The study identifies five open spaces within the settlement, and the challenges and tourism possibilities, such as maintaining its historic urban character and reviving the streets and neighborhood parks, were uncovered. The study concluded that policies for landscape and urban design that incorporate green infrastructure into the open spaces for sustainable urban revitalization and tourism development. It recommended innovative and adaptive urban design strategies to boost tourism through effective streetscaping using nature-based greenery and beautification.
Copyright (c) 2024 John Adesina, Nnezi Uduma-Olugu, Michael Adeloye Adebamowo, Winchester Ndum Fuh, Xiaolan Tang, Yujie Ren https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Data Centers, Critical Minerals, Energy, and Geopolitics: The Foundations of Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has expanded significantly in recent years, permeating various sectors of the economy and daily lives. However, this rapid adoption requires an analysis of the underlying trade-offs associated with its operation, which are often unknown to the public. Based on an analysis of data extracted from academic articles, technical reports, data repositories, and government documents, this article explores the physical, energy, and geopolitical dimensions underpinning AI. Despite often being perceived as immaterial, AI relies on a vast and complex physical infrastructure, supported by data centers that house thousands of pieces of equipment manufactured from a wide range of minerals and metals, many of which are classified as critical. Currently, approximately 12,000 data centers are in operation worldwide, including 992 hyperscale facilities that cover areas of thousands of square meters. The short life cycle of data center equipment, combined with inadequate disposal, removes valuable metals from the supply chain, intensifying mineral extraction and exacerbating socio-environmental impacts. Meanwhile, the competition between the United States and China for control over critical minerals and leadership in AI technologies has heightened geopolitical tensions, with mutual restrictions on the export of advanced technologies and essential minerals. Another key aspect is the high energy consumption of AI applications: in the United States, data centers already account for about 4% of national electricity consumption, with projections reaching 9.1% by 2030. Although major technology companies invest in renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, to meet this growing demand, these sources also require significant volumes of critical minerals. This set of factors highlights the complex interconnection between Artificial Intelligence, Data Centers, Critical Minerals, Energy, and Geopolitics.
Ricardo Junior de Assis Fernandes Gonçalves
Copyright (c) 2024 João Henrique Santana Stacciarini, Ricardo Junior de Assis Fernandes Gonçalves https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Soybean, a Commodity without Borders: Socio-Environmental Impacts in Protected Areas and Indigenous Communities in Mato Grosso do Sul/Brazil
The occupation of the cone-south region of the state of Mato Grosso do Sul is not exclusively territorial, it is successively temporal and depends on public and private social actors, who build, elaborate, and provide conditions for the existence of the dynamics that are established there. The economic spatial expansion, especially for agricultural and cattle raising activities, attracts capital to change land use, intensifying the pressure on more vulnerable areas, such as conservation units and indigenous lands. The main change in land use and cover observed in the last 30 years was the loss of native vegetation inside conservation units (-29%) and indigenous lands (-34%) and the conversion of pasture areas, which had a reduction of 76% and 38%, to plant soy, which increased 536% and 98% inside indigenous lands and conservation units, respectively. Thus, it is clear that delimiting a conservation area or circumscribing traditional populations in a small area without resources prevents them from reproducing their way of life and, paradoxically, induces them to develop predatory practices against the environment or to lease their lands to large landowners, as the only means of guaranteeing their subsistence and not falling into poverty. This study highlights the urgent need to rethink territorial policies to ensure sustainable and socially just land use models.
Copyright (c) 2024 Patricia Silva Ferreira, Charlei Aparecido da Silva https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Application of the Roughness Concentration Index (Rci) in the Assessment of the Flood Extent of the 2024 Flood Event in the Municipality of Pelotas-RS
The present study investigates the increasing recurrence of catastrophic events, particularly urban flooding, and their associated social and economic impacts. The research underscores the role of precipitation intensity and spatial-temporal patterns as critical drivers exacerbating flood events, especially in socially and geographically vulnerable urban areas. The main objective is to assess the flood extent generated by the 2024 flood event in Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, through the application of the Rugosity Concentration Index (RCI). The RCI is a geomorphological technique used to analyze the Earth's surface, identifying areas with homogeneous terrain characteristics, particularly regarding surface roughness distribution. Specific objectives include the identification and characterization of zones with varying degrees of rugosity within the flood extent, correlating these patterns with spatial coverage and water depth. The methodological framework employed advanced Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques for spatial data processing, including the development of a detailed cartographic base and the extraction of elevation data from municipal altimetry datasets. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of the RCI in detecting morphometric patterns and quantifying terrain roughness, contributing to a better understanding of hydrological redistribution processes during extreme events. Critical areas were identified where terrain rugosity significantly influenced both the spatial extent and depth of floodwaters. The study concludes that the integration of the RCI into flood risk assessments can offer strategic insights for urban planning and disaster risk reduction, supporting the implementation of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1, 11, and 13, and promoting the development of resilient and sustainable urban environments.
Copyright (c) 2024 Tainara Goulart Corrêa, Tássia Parada Sampaio, Luciano Martins Tavares, Diuliana Leandro, Pascal Silas THUE, Robson Andreazza, Maurizio Silveira Quadros https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Literature Review of Relief-Soil-Plant Interaction in Rock Outcrops
Rock outcrops (ROs) are geological-geomorphological features that span a wide variety of climates and biomes. In hot arid and semiarid regions, ROs support the occurrence of landscape elements different from those in the surrounding matrix. Furthermore, ROs are essential for protecting and maintaining specialized ecosystems, serving as a shelter for biodiversity. This importance is even more visible with the growing number of publications. A systematic literature review synthesized the relief-soil-vegetation relations influenced by ROs under hot arid and semiarid climates. A bibliometric survey was carried out on the Scopus platform throughout the available sample period (1903-2022). The searches focused only on research and review articles in English in the title, abstract, and keyword fields. Most ROs studies focused on biological components, mainly vegetation, while climate, relief, and soil are considered support variables. ROs are essential for the occurrence and persistence of specialized ecosystems. Differential erosion, faults and accumulation of sediments, organic residues and water create microhabitats in ROs. These microhabitats host a high richness and diversity, once submit species to different temperature and soil moisture regimes. This diversification of microhabitats provides biodiversity with relatively safer and more stable shelters, characterizing them as refuges in dry climates and protecting elements that indicate past temporal conditions. Future studies/analyses should investigate how variables operate in these environments.
Copyright (c) 2024 Inocencio de Oliveira Borges Neto, Leonardo José Cordeiro Santos, João Lelis Leal de Souza, Bartolomeu Israel de Souza, Rafael Albuquerque Xavier, Maria do Socorro Silva Salvador, Valéria Raquel Porto de Lima https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Feasibility of Using Drones for Monitoring Soybean Crops: A Comparative Study in Jataí-GO
Technological advancements have reduced geographical barriers, demanding rapid adaptation across all sectors, including the use of remotely piloted aircraft (RPAs), commonly known as drones, which have been widely applied in areas such as urban and agricultural monitoring. In municipalities like Jataí-GO, where agribusiness is predominant, the use of RPAs for measuring vegetative indices (VIs) brings benefits for more precise and sustainable agricultural practices. However, the cost of some RPAs limits their broader adoption, as many devices can exceed R$ 160,000 (Brazilian currency). This research is experimental and aimed to develop techniques for using rotary-wing drones, which are more affordable than other models available on the market, to generate vegetation indices for mapping and monitoring commercial grain crops. The methodology consisted of: 1) field surveys in soybean planting areas; 2) acquisition of images from the Sentinel-2 satellite and the drone; 3) processing of images captured by the Phantom 4 PRO drone, equipped with a MAPIR Survey 3W camera; and 4) analysis of correlations between the VIs obtained by the drone and Sentinel-2 in two areas on the campus of the Federal University of Jataí (UFJ), for validation. Data collection included the use of a high-precision Trimble R4s GNSS for georeferencing. The results show a strong correlation between the VIs calculated using drone and Sentinel-2 images for soybean crops, with coefficients of determination (R²) exceeding 0.72 for VARI and 0.73 for NDVI. Plot 001 stood out for its uniformity, achieving high coefficients of determination, reinforcing the effectiveness of the geotechnologies employed. In more heterogeneous areas, such as plot 002, the VIs revealed differences, particularly with the VARI index, which proved less efficient for mixed cultivation environments. The data confirms that VIs generated by cost-effective drones can indicate planting variations, demonstrating the feasibility of their application in the agricultural sector without significant investments.
Copyright (c) 2024 Carlos Eduardo Damasceno, Alécio Perini Martins https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
How Much Green is Left in a Metropolis? A Study on the Remaining Vegetation Cover in Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
The expansion of human activities has caused a significant loss of biodiversity globally, with anthropogenic land uses rapidly expanding and urban areas growing quickly, resulting in deforestation and fragmentation of natural ecosystems. The city of Fortaleza, an example of this phenomenon, has faced disorganized urban growth, loss of vegetation cover, and deep socio-environmental challenges throughout its history. This resulted in the loss of most of the municipality's vegetation cover and the fragmentation of the remaining areas. This study aims to quantify the remaining vegetation fragments in Fortaleza, map the municipality's original ecosystems, and map the remaining native vegetation. Using geomorphology maps and correlating the typical vegetation types in each original landscape unit, we mapped the city's native ecosystems, identifying seven categories: coastal grasslands, dune ecosystems, vegetation of coastal tablelands, mangroves, riparian forests, caatinga, and dry forests. Using high-resolution satellite images and the maximum likelihood method, we found that 62% of the territory is urbanized, and much of the remaining areas are already devoid of vegetation. Only about 16% of the municipality's surface still has vegetation fragments. The preservation of vegetation cover and urban biodiversity is a fundamental goal for the sustainable development of cities, providing various ecosystem services, such as maintaining fauna and preventing floods, especially in the context of climate emergency. The study identified remaining natural areas and locations requiring legal protection. We suggest the creation of Conservation Units, Urban Parks, and green areas connecting existing fragments, as a vital goal for the sustainability of Fortaleza and the conservation of urban biodiversity.
Copyright (c) 2024 Maria Ligia Farias Costa, Jader de Oliveira Santos, Liana Rodrigues Queiroz , Marcelo Freire Moro https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Social Deprivation and Poverty in the City of Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul: Analysis from Popular Peripheries of High Social Deprivation
Urban Geography has utilized various concepts over the last century to study urban poverty, such as segregation, exclusion, marginality, and more recently, social vulnerability. However, very little has been produced in Brazilian Geography regarding social deprivation as a concept for analyzing poverty, especially urban poverty. In this sense, the objective of this article is to present and discuss fragments of urban poverty present in the city of Santa Maria, in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, referred to as popular peripheries of high social deprivation. The methodological procedures were operationalized using secondary and primary data, organized and mapped in a Geographic Information System. Secondary data were obtained from the municipal departments of Social Development and Housing and Land Regularization, as well as the Planning Institute of Santa Maria. Data from the Social Deprivation Index were also used, constructed from the 2010 Census data from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics. Primary data were collected through 19 fieldwork sessions conducted between 2020 and 2024 across all urban neighborhoods of the city. Seven fragments of poverty in the urban territory of Santa Maria were defined, referred to as popular peripheries of high social deprivation. These high social deprivation peripheries territorially reveal urban poverty in the city through the limitation or complete absence of resources and structures necessary for social development. Poverty, therefore, is derived from multiple deprivations, at different levels, expressed territorially for Santa Maria through the popular peripheries of high social deprivation.
Copyright (c) 2024 Pedro Leonardo Cezar Spode, Rivaldo Mauro de Faria https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Historical Cartography as a Tool for Analyzing Landscape Transformations of the Paquequer River in the Genesis Area of Teresópolis, Rio de Janeiro - Brazil
When addressing landscape dynamics, the theoretical-conceptual intersection between cartography and geoecology converges in the interpretation and representation of spatial and environmental transformations, comprehensively elucidating the interactions between natural systems and human interventions in the territory. This study investigates the landscape transformations of the Paquequer River, located in the central area of Teresópolis (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil), using historical cartography as the main analytical tool and adopting geoecology as the theoretical framework, which serves as a geographic approach for analyzing landscape dynamics. In this regard, the central aim is to identify and understand the changes in the course of the Paquequer River and their correlations with the urban development of Teresópolis. The article addresses the evolution of the river and its influence on the urban development of Teresópolis from the 19th century to the present day. Gathering historical documents, such as maps, photographs, and municipal records, was essential for contextualizing the region's geographical and cultural changes. The historical maps were compared with contemporary cartographic data using georeferencing and vectorization techniques, allowing for an analysis of the modifications in the river’s course, particularly concerning its sinuosity index. The analysis revealed a decrease in the river’s sinuosity over time, suggesting a process of channel straightening. The study concludes that the Paquequer River in the genesis area of the municipality of Teresópolis is a crucial structuring element in the city's development and that integrating historical and geographical approaches is essential for effectively preserving and managing urban landscapes. The methodology employed provided a detailed understanding of landscape transformations, offering valuable insights for urban planning and environmental management.
Copyright (c) 2024 Pietro Meirelles Brites, Manoel do Couto Fernandes https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Analysis of the Land Use and Land Cover and the Normalized Difference Indexes of Vegetation and Water within Indigenous Lands and Surrounding Areas in the Brazilian Amazon Basin
The majority of Brazilian Indigenous lands, more than 98%, are found in the Amazon region. They are a major barrier to the advance of deforestation in this region. The Amazon region and its vast biodiversity have suffered from the advance of agriculture and illegal and legal occupations that do not consider regional environmental characteristics. This study analyzed changes in vegetation between 1985 and 2020, within and around Indigenous lands in the Brazilian Amazon Basin. The analysis was conducted using the land use and land cover classification, the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), the Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI), and the Land Surface Temperature (LST). Results showed that Indigenous lands and their surroundings, located far from agricultural properties and close to other Indigenous lands or federal Conservation Units (UCs), maintained the conservation of vegetation, temperature, and soil moisture in their internal and surrounding areas. Indigenous lands adjacent to areas of agricultural expansion, while still conserving their vegetation, experienced changes in their surroundings. Soybean fields and pasture areas have replaced the forest, which increased LST. This study showed the resilience and importance of Indigenous lands in protecting and preserving the Amazon biome and its vast biodiversity.
Copyright (c) 2024 Letícia Longanezi Bento, Hugo José Ribeiro, Kátia Alcione Kopp https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Microplastics in Rivers of South America: An Emerging Area of Research
Plastic pollution has emerged as one of our most pervasive and pressing environmental issues, impacting ecosystems, wildlife, and even human health globally. Microplastic research has primarily focused on oceans, whether in water, sediments, or organisms, generating a significant gap in understanding their presence and impact on other environments like rivers, which is a concern worldwide, and of paramount importance for us in Latin America and the Caribbean. To address this situation, we examined the current research on microplastics in South American rivers by conducting a Google Scholar search with keywords and Boolean operators, which allowed us to recover a series of articles related to this topic. We reviewed 49 articles published in 2023 to know methods for collecting and analyzing river samples. Our findings revealed limited information on microplastics in South America, with data only from Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, and Peru. Additionally, we found considerable variations in sample collection and analysis methods, hindering study comparisons. Bridging this knowledge gap is crucial for comprehending the extent of plastic pollution in the region. Since rivers are major microplastic contributors to oceans, this research will significantly aid in environmental protection efforts, emphasizing the global relevance of addressing riverine plastic pollution.
Copyright (c) 2024 Adriana Carolina Gamboa, William Gaida, Gabriel Baraldi Volpi, Tandara Deitos, Andressa Maiara de Almeida Machado, Fábio Marcelo Breunig, Genésio Mario da Rosa, Kauane Andressa Flach https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Heat Index (HI) in the city of Fortaleza, Ceará
Over time, changes in space have resulted in changes in natural characteristics. In this context, thermal comfort indicators have emerged, as developed to interpret environmental conditions in relation to thermal stress. The objective of this study was to apply the Heat Index (HI) in different neighborhoods of the city of Fortaleza, which choice was based on the different types of land cover. We carried out data collection campaign at ten points in the city, using thermohygrometer sensors. We applied the HI equation to the data collected, according to the intervals of the National Weather Service and the intervals adapted for the municipality. The data indicate that Fortaleza experienced high temperatures throughout the analyzed period (dry and hot months), having a negative impact on the HI (up to 42°C). The comparison of the comfort indicator classes showed that, in the original interval, few records indicated comfortable conditions in the different neighborhoods, while the interval of classes considering the acclimatization of the population indicated situations that were more comfortable. The worst comfort conditions occurred in the afternoon, between 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. The most critical points are associated with the density of buildings and the lack of urban green infrastructure, with neighborhoods Parque do Cocó and Bairro de Fátima (with more trees) that presented the highest frequency in the comfort class. We concluded that the entire territory of the city faces thermal stress; however, green structures have the potential to mitigate the adverse effects of the thermal field, improving human comfort in the urban environment.
Copyright (c) 2024 Antonio Ferreira Lima Junior, Flávia Ingrid Bezerra Paiva Gomes, Maria Elisa Zanella https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Contribution of the FPEIR/TOPSIS Model in The Environmental Diagnosis of Water Security in Areas Affected by the B1 Dam, Brumadinho, MG
The Paraopeba River Basin, located in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, has been severely impacted by extreme climatic events and the 2019 Vale S.A. dam failures in Brumadinho. This study underscores the importance of integrating multi-criteria decision analysis with a conceptual model to diagnose water security in the region based on socio-environmental indicators. Employing the DPSIR methodology, socio-environmental indicators are proposed and analyzed to assess water security and to support the planning and management of water resources in the Paraopeba River Basin (BHRP). The approach combines the TOPSIS multi-criteria analysis model with the entropy weight method to rank municipalities according to their levels of water security. The analysis identified critical challenges, including population growth, industrialization, and agricultural expansion, which exacerbate water contamination. Brumadinho and Betim emerged as the most vulnerable municipalities, exhibiting high rates of waterborne diseases and inadequate wastewater treatment infrastructure. Intense industrial and agricultural activities have further heightened environmental risks, as exemplified by the dam failures. The study underscores socio-environmental pressures and highlights the importance of integrated approaches. The findings emphasize the need for robust public policies, sustainable agricultural practices, participatory management, infrastructure improvements, and climate change adaptation to ensure water security and improve quality of life.
Copyright (c) 2024 Priscila Aparecida da Rocha Honorato, Marcos Antonio Timbó Elmiro, Marcelo Antonio Nero, Plinio da Costa Temba, Helder Lages Jardim https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Evaluation of the Hypotheses on the Formation of Earth Mound Fields in the Federal District of Brazil Through Landscape Element Analysis
The Brazilian Savanna houses Earth Mound Fields (EmF), which represent the rarest phytophysiognomy among the fourteen present in the Federal District of Brazil (FDB). However, the EmF origin remains a subject of debate, and biotic and abiotic hypotheses propose divergent mechanisms for EmF’s mound formation. To shed light on the subject, this study evaluated the spatial configuration of 197 EmF on the FDB landscape and characterized their structure. The identified EmF across the FDB territory were georeferenced and overlaid onto aerial images from 2009. The area of each EmF was manually vectorized and its configuration was evaluated using landscape metrics. The structures of four EmF were examined using laser profiling (LiDAR), incorporating metrics related to occupation, morphology, and dispersion. In addition, the elevation of mounds’ tops and the adjacent surfaces was analyzed to assess the altimetric continuity between these elements. The identified EmF spread over 6,556 ha, representing 1.2% of the FDB's territory. Regarding the biotic hypothesis, the metrics associated with the dispersion of EmF’s mounds, their volume, and basal area do not align with the characteristics of termite mounds attributed to the species reported as mound builders. Additionally, the altimetric continuity between mounds’ tops and the external surfaces adjacent to EmF supports the abiotic hypothesis for mound formation.
Copyright (c) 2024 Thyego Pery Monteiro de Lima, Rodrigo Studart Corrêa https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Economic Growth and Environmental Sustainability in Latin American Countries: A Green GDP Approach
Since the second half of the twentieth century, advancing economic growth in global economies has led to a significant increase in environmental concerns. In this context, it has become evident that widely used socioeconomic indicators do not include variables related to the environment and other social issues, such as labor and education. Therefore, it is necessary to reflect on and develop new indicators that address these aspects, with Green GDP being a prominent example of how to bridge this gap. The aim of this study is to analyze the relationship between economic growth and environmental sustainability in Latin American countries by comparing the growth rates of traditional GDP and Green GDP across twenty selected countries. The methodology involved estimating Green GDP, which adjusts traditional GDP by excluding the cost of natural resource consumption and environmental depletion. Data were gathered from reputable sources, such as the World Bank, the Australian Energy Regulator, the Latin America and Caribbean Energy Hub, and Global Petrol Prices. The main findings indicate that the growth rate of Green GDP was higher than that of traditional GDP in the analyzed sample. Regionally, Central American countries showed significantly better results than South American countries. It can be concluded that most Latin American countries demonstrated more sustainable development, with the results suggesting that sustainability is, to some extent, accompanying economic growth in the region.
Copyright (c) 2024 Alain Hernández Santoyo, Otávio Junio Faria Neves, Italo do Nascimento Mendonça, Marcelo Fernandes Pacheco Dias , Gabrielito Rauter Menezes https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0