Serviços ecossistêmicos e impactos ambientais: uma análise integrada em um parque natural municipal em Natal/RN

Abstract

The Dom Nivaldo Monte City Park (PCDNM) is the first Municipal Environmental Conservation Unit, part of the National System of Conservation Units (SNUC) in the city of Natal in the state of Rio Grande do Norte/Brazil. Its main objective is to preserve nature, allowing only the indirect use of its natural resources, being a place for contemplation, recreation, sports and environmental education, playing a fundamental role in protecting the underground water source, which supplies a large part of the city, as well as housing a variety of animal and plant species, including some threatened with extinction. That said, the present work aimed to carry out an integrated analysis of the region, identifying the Ecosystem Services provided by the park and applying the DPSIR tool as an instrument for identifying anthropogenic impacts, in order to ratify the importance of this Conservation Unit as a provider of well-being for the population of the city of Natal, as well as verifying possible environmental impacts that, if not controlled, could compromise future generations. The research emphasized the importance of the Park as a biodiverse ecosystem, essential for environmental stability, through the promotion of pollination, pest control and nutrient cycling, in addition to serving as a refuge for native species, playing a crucial role in fauna conservation. and regional flora. Another aspect highlighted is the relevance of the Park as a leisure and entertainment space, providing walking trails and green spaces for outdoor activities. These opportunities not only promote physical and mental health, but also offer therapeutic and educational benefits, stimulating awareness of the importance of environmental conservation. Furthermore, the research highlighted the role of the Park as a facilitator of the connection between people and nature, encouraging direct contact with natural environments, whether through the appreciation of natural beauty and the development of a sense of belonging, or by encouraging environmental responsibility. Understanding these services has enabled the implementation of actions and policies aimed at protecting the natural resources present in the park, as well as promoting environmental education and raising awareness among the population about the importance of their preservation. Furthermore, the application of the DPSIR tool (Driving Force, Pressure, State, Impact, Response) highlighted several driving forces, such as leisure and recreation, scientific research, environmental education, cultural and religious events and provision of plant species, with direct implications for conservation and sustainable management of the park. One of the main findings was the pressure exerted by leisure and recreation, which, although it is a positive driving force in promoting the integration of society with the natural environment, presents challenges such as the increase in human and vehicle traffic, requiring careful assessments and formal authorizations. to avoid harmful impacts on ecosystems. Scientific research and environmental education, fundamental for understanding local biodiversity and raising awareness, also contribute to pressures, despite their low intensity, especially through sample collection and habitat disturbance, affecting natural conditions. In the context of water resources, the research identified the importance of the Dunas/Barreiras Aquifer for supplying the municipality, however, with discrete impacts related to water collection and analysis, well drilling and pump installations, requiring ethical and sustainable approaches. Furthermore, the research highlighted challenges related to cultural and religious events taking place in the park, such as the need for temporary infrastructure and effective and rigorous waste management. Finally, the research provided an in-depth understanding of the driving forces and anthropogenic impacts in the PCDNM, emphasizing the need for effective management, inspection and continuous monitoring measures, many of which are already mentioned in the Management Plan, a crucial component to ensure sustainability and preservation of this important environmental heritage.