GEODIVERSITY IN THE MANAGEMENT OF BRAZILIAN PROTECTED AREAS: A COMPARATIVE STUDY IN SERRA DO MAR STATE PARK AND ITATIAIA NATIONAL PARK

• Grant number: 24/14319-3
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• Start date: February 01, 2025
• End date: August 31, 2028
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Geosciences - Geology
• Principal Investigator: Maria da Glória Motta Garcia
• Grantee: Karina de Souza Ibanez
• Host Institution: Instituto de Geociências (IGC). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Geodiversity is crucial in supporting biodiversity and provides a range of ecosystem services, while geoheritage presents exceptional scientific, cultural, educational, and geotouristic values that should be promoted sustainably. However, protected areas have not yet effectively incorporated these concepts, limiting the application of the geoscientific knowledge necessary for their appreciation and conservation. This work proposes to develop a methodology to integrate geodiversity into the management of Brazilian protected areas, focusing on the Serra do Mar State Park and the Itatiaia National Park. These areas, located in the Mantiqueira Province and situated respectively in the Serra do Mar and Serra da Mantiqueira, are essential for understanding the geological, tectonic, and geomorphological evolution of the Southeastern South American Platform, with geodiversity that supports one of the last remnants of the Atlantic Forest. The methodology includes applying IUCN guidelines, geoheritage inventory, characterization of geosystem services, and creating geodiversity maps. The technical management product will be developed based on geoscientific data and a comparative analysis of management plans, integrating the interpretive potential and uses of geodiversity by society. This research aims to foster the integration between geoconservation efforts and their direct application in protected areas-places where the management and conservation of natural heritage are promoted. The results obtained can support geoconservation in protected areas, promoting better management of geodiversity and geoheritage, and integrating these concepts into public nature conservation policies.