Emerging environmental fragility from the santa maria do doce hydrographic basin-es, brazil

Abstract

The study of the emerging environmental fragility is an important diagnostic tool, providing information closer to the environmental scenario of the area, helping in decision-making for the implementation of public policies. In order to intervene in human actions in favor of sustainability and environmental responsibility, it is essential to recognize the potential and weaknesses inherent in geographical spaces. The present work had as objective the determination and evaluation of the emerging environmental fragility in the basin of the Santa Maria do Doce river, in the state of Espírito Santo-Brazil. An integrated analysis of the environmental components was carried out, related to the relief, the characteristics of the soil and the different types of land use and cover that are interrelated and result in different levels of environmental fragility. The methodological model was based on tools already consolidated by academic research, including adaptations, according to the specificities of the study area, through the acquisition of geographic information plans made available by official agencies. The research also included field visits, on which occasion photographic records were taken at points in the study area. The cartographic products obtained proved to be effective in relating causes to man-nature effects, perceptible in the basin of the Santa Maria do Doce River. Environmental aspects were highlighted that should be prioritized when it comes to preserving the environment and the harmonious relationship between man and nature. It was possible to identify that in the basin there is a predominance of the class of medium environmental fragility. This fragility is mainly related to the use, cover and type of soil, indicating the existence of places with environmental disturbances and susceptible to damage caused by erosive processes. Such processes can promote soil loss and siltation of drainage channels, thus requiring greater attention from municipal managers in ordering the land occupation in the basin of the Santa Maria do Doce River.