Educação ambiental e memórias afetivas sobre o subafluente do Rio Paraíba no município de Queimadas

Abstract

The existence of the Paraíba River basin is recognized not only as a source of water resources for localities in the state of Paraíba, but also as an indispensable natural resource for the communities located along its course. Despite their great importance, human actions related to these ecosystems have contributed to environmental degradation, increasing the risk of extinction of native animal and plant species in the region. In this context, this research aimed to identify the perception of residents of traditional communities, seeking to understand their knowledge about the existence and recognition of the Paraíba River's tributary, based on affective memories, aiming to contribute to its conscious use and environmental conservation in the municipality of Queimadas. Furthermore, the study sought to identify the memories that residents have of the water source and to develop a cordel (a type of Brazilian folk poetry) inspired by the sociocultural influence, based on traditional knowledge, environmental perception, and the rural communities associated with the Paraíba River basin, drawing on authors such as Chaves (2017), Leff (2012), Ricklefs (2003), Hallbwachs (1990), Almeida (2017), Freitas (2008), Bosi (1994), and Zanetti (2009). In the methodological process, the research began with territorial studies, employing data collection instruments such as semi-structured interviews and photographic records of the local communities. For data systematization, content analysis was used according to Bardin (2016) and Dias (2008), investigating the experiences and traditional knowledge of the residents related to the Paraíba River. As a follow-up, a cordel poem was created for educational purposes, focusing on an environmental education approach about the river. The research contributes significantly to environmental appreciation and preservation, promoting traditional practices and knowledge that foster actions and policies aimed at the sustainable use of natural resources, aligned with the principles of environmental education.