Environmental Impacts in Protected Areas: a case study in the Toca dos Ossos Private Natural Heritage Reserve - Ourolândia – Bahia, Brazil

Abstract

In order to contain the advances in environmental degradation, several strategies to maintain biodiversity have been developed, such as the Conservation Units (CUs). The CUs are important instruments for environmental conservation and preservation, especially of fauna and flora species. In this sense, the present study aimed at surveying the adverse environmental impacts caused by the visitation in the region of Toca dos Ossos, with the purpose of being the starting point for environmental education actions and for the creation of public policies that aim at a better management of the area. The study was developed in Toca dos Ossos, a state Private Natural Heritage Reserve, in which the identification of environmental impacts was done through a thorough analysis of the research site. The methodological procedures used to gather information were: a bibliographic review based on books, academic publications, websites; an on-site visit, and photographic records. During the visit to the study area, it was possible to observe several environmental irregularities, such as: incorrect disposal of solid waste; soil compaction due to the process of opening of trails and frequent trampling in these spaces; and the depredation of the natural heritage, given the presence of graffiti on the site. Thus, we conclude that the implementation of public policies aimed at sustainable tourism and awareness-raising actions through environmental education practices can reverse the current scenario of environmental degradation, restoring the balance of the society/nature relationship.