Análise dos serviços da geodiversidade do litoral norte do município de São Luís-MA, Brasil

Abstract

Studies on geodiversity have been gaining emphasis in recent decades, and the importance of abiotic elements for societies is increasingly discussed. Although research related to biodiversity still has more emphasis on society when it comes to environmental planning and management, studies on geodiversity analysis, identification and quantification of geosites, identification of geodiversity services, among others, are increasing. In this scenario, we highlight the Ilha do Maranhão, specifically the municipality of São Luís, capital of the State of Maranhão, which has a geodiverse coastal area and is widely used by the local population and visitors. However, studies that identify and analyze the services provided by the area's geodiversity are scarce. In this context, this research seeks to analyze the services provided by the geodiversity of the coast of the municipality of São Luís - MA, with a view to a better understanding of the relationship between local society and geodiversity. Authors who address the importance of geodiversity services or the interrelation between these and ecosystem services, such as Gordon and Brawn (2012), Rabelo et al (2019), Rabelo, Santos and Costa (2017), Rabelo, were used to support the research. (2018), Silva, Mansur and Nascimento (2018). For the development of the research, the following methodological procedures were carried out: survey of bibliographic and cartographic material, remote sensing and geoprocessing techniques, field activities for identification and inventory of points of interest and identification of the services provided by geodiversity, for analysis and discussion raised in the research process. According to the elements of geodiversity observed, analyzed and described in this work, geomorphology is perceived on the coast of São Luís as the most relevant aspect of geodiversity for identifying points of interest in the area, and geomorphological characteristics are associated with the main provided by these areas to the population. Eight points of interest from geodiversity were identified, in which all points presented at least four of the five services (regulation, support, provision, cultural and knowledge) proposed by Gray's methodology (2013). From this survey it is possible to point out the main services of each location and the forms of use made by society.