Percepção ambiental e seu conteúdo mínimo para transformações socioambientais: estudo de caso em São Francisco Xavier, distrito de São José dos Campos, SP

Abstract

Understanding the influences that act on the relationship between human beings and the environment, aiming at adjusting individual and collective behaviors to change the development paradigm in favor of socio-environmental sustainability, is essential to face the current socio-environmental crisis. In this context, Environmental Perception is an important ally of the government in interpreting social reality, configuring itself as a means of supporting Environmental Management, especially in Protected areas of Sustainable Use, where more consistent efforts are needed to combine conservation and environmental management. To deepen and improve knowledge on how environmental perception can be used for this purpose, this thesis was developed in the protected area of São Francisco Xavier. We present five analytical concepts and four key terms that guide the analysis of Environmental Perception in Protected Areas such as the area studied. The analytical concepts are: historicity, identity, memory, imaginary and territoriality. The key terms are: protected area, environment, tourism and development. We conducted bibliographic and documentary research, observation, semi-structured interviews and photo documentation to illustrate the thesis. The differences in environmental perception of new and old residents were analyzed. Content Analysis (CA) was used on the data obtained together with the analytical concepts and key terms of the theoretical framework. It was noted that there is a more conspicuous socio-environmental conflict, which is territorial and that influences the identity and belonging of residents. We propose Environmental Management and Governance measures to mitigate conflicts within this dynamic. In addition, we propose a link between Environmental perception, Cultural Values of Nature and Collaborative Conservation, as areas of study that are connected at their core, and innovative solutions can emerge if worked together and in harmony in this context.