Práticas de geração de valor em áreas de proteção ambiental: uma investigação com asset framework

Abstract

One way to advocate for the existence of Conservation Units is by identifying their diverse characteristics, uses, and forms of value—both tangible and intangible. Value Generation Practices represent different socio-environmental uses carried out by social actors, and this "Value" can be captured either by beneficiary groups or by the protected natural area itself. This study aims to analyze the profile of Environmental Protection Areas in Alagoas by providing a comprehensive inventory of the ongoing Value Generation Practices and generating public-interest information that can contribute to planning and decision-making. The study covered eight Environmental Protection Areas in the state of Alagoas. To understand the dynamics between management and social uses, the methodology was based on the Structuring of Assets in Protected Areas. Value Generation Practices were identified through interviews with managers, who are considered socio-environmental actors linked to the Environmental Protection Areas. The inventory of Value Generation Practices includes 72 activities, varying according to the ecological and socio-economic specificities of each region. The Environmental Protection Area with the highest number of identified practices was Costa dos Corais, with 44 practices, followed by Marituba do Peixe 40, Pratagy 37, Serra da Caiçara 34, Catolé e Fernão Velho 32, Piaçabuçu 31, Murici 29, and Santa Rita 25. Linear models incorporating the descriptive characteristics of Conservation Units and managers did not significantly influence the number of identified Value Generation Practices in each Conservation Unit. Similarity analysis revealed that the Santa Rita APA differs from the others, whereas some APAs share similarities. The APAs of Murici and Serra da Caiçara, as well as Costa dos Corais and Piaçabuçu, presented high similarity (≥70%), suggesting similar perceptions in the recognition of Value Generation Practices. These results highlight the importance of considering the specificities of the Conservation Units together with the diversity of practices carried out with natural resources, aiming at a more integrated management that is appropriate to the socio-environmental realities of sustainable use.