Socio-environmental perception of communities in the metropolitan region of Belém/PA from environmental education activities

Abstract

This study analyzes the socio-environmental perception of participants in environmental education initiatives promoted by the Environmental Education Coordination Office of the Pará State Secretariat for the Environment and Sustainability, through the implementation of the "TerPaz" public policy, in the Terra Firme (Belém) and Icuí-Guajará (Ananindeua) neighborhoods. The methodology used consisted of questionnaires to collect data after the "Reuse of solid household waste and entrepreneurship" workshops, the answers to which were subjected to a qualitative and quantitative analysis in order to assess the participants' perceptions and opinions on the subject. The results pointed to a perception on the part of those involved of the importance of more responsible and balanced management of natural resources, in line with the principles of environmental, social and economic sustainability, as fundamental pillars for building a more sustainable society committed to people's quality of life. This interconnection between the economy, society and the environment can be explored as a strategy for developing public policies that encourage the adoption of sustainable practices in a context of social vulnerability.