Gestão de crises no turismo: uma abordagem socioambiental na Barra do Cunhaú, Canguaretama/RN

Abstract

The present study aims to analyze the characteristics of the relationship between crisis management and tourism practices from a socio-environmental perspective on the coast of Barra do Cunhaú, RN. To achieve this purpose, the following specific objectives were defined: to present the characteristics of Barra do Cunhaú as a destination and tourist attraction; to identify the various crises that impact tourism activity in the locality; and to analyze the identified crises, considering their causes, consequences, and the management approaches adopted. The methodology employed was characterized by a qualitative approach with an exploratory-descriptive design, which enabled an in-depth understanding of the local context and the dynamics related to crisis management. Data collection was carried out through interviews, documentary research, direct observation, and image analysis. The results of the study indicated that most of the crises identified in the destination have internal origins, being substantially related to the area's deficient infrastructure and public management. It was observed that management adopts a reactive and centralized stance, in which decisions made during times of crisis are mostly palliative, preventing the definitive resolution of these issues. Furthermore, the absence of preventive and control measures increases the destination’s vulnerability. Thus, this study provides subsidies for a deeper investigation of the identified weaknesses, as well as for the development of more efficient and sustainable public policies focused on prevention and preparedness for local crises