Sensibilização para a conservação das águas subterrâneas: um estudo em áreas de recarga do Aquífero Guarani em bacias hidrográficas no Estado de São Paulo

Abstract

Groundwater is one of the most important fresh water's sources available for human consumption. However, they are largely unknown, probably due to distortions in environmental perception, since it is hidden under the surface. Moreover, there are few initiatives to conserve the groundwater, as well as studies focused on sensitization, perception and comprehension of the processes involving this important resource. In this way, the research had the objective of investigating the sensitization processes aimed at the conservation of these waters, focusing on Pardo's Watershed Management Units (UGRHI-04) and Tiete-Jacaré Watershed (UGRHI-13), both strategic for conservation actions of the Guarani Aquifer System (SAG). In order to do that, this exploratory research was divided in the following stages: theoretical basement through systematic bibliographical review; survey, categorization and analysis of materials and didactic resources on the subject; compilation of directives and guiding essential principles for the development of future materials that facilitate the perception and knowledge of the aquifer systems and the sensitization of the users, made from a participatory approach with the research collaborators; development, application and evaluation of an sensitization experience for the conservation of groundwater, focused on the reality of the studied UGRHIs, together with the research collaborators. The results evidenced the expressiveness of materials and didactic resources on the subject matter in the studied areas, making available the existing resources and the opportunities for improvement of these materials. Based on the contribution of experts in the field, the guidelines suggested in this research point to the importance of the elaboration of resources with technical quality in relation to textual and graphic contents, and that are interactive, creative, engaging, inclusive and directed to the local, contextualized and problematized. The experience developed was effective to facilitate the perception and sensitization of the participant, according to the evaluation of the employees, constituting a possibility to be used by those who wish to act in the field of awareness. With this, the research contributes to the increase of knowledge and provides new research opportunities in this area.