Socio-environmental Effects of Continuous Exploitation of the Cerrado Biome

Abstract

 

Socio-environmental Effects of Continuous Exploitation of the Cerrado Biome
Student: Maria Eduarda Lemes Lopes
Advisor: Thiago Brito Steckelberg
Institution: FACEG
Keywords: Cerrado; Biome; Biodiversity; Deforestation

Abstract:

Introduction: The Cerrado is one of Brazil's five major biomes, covering about 25% of the national territory. It is the second-largest vegetation formation in the country, after the Amazon Rainforest, concentrated mainly in the Brazilian Central Plateau. As one of the most biodiverse regions in the world, it is believed that more than 40% of its woody plant species and 50% of its bees are endemic. Along with the Atlantic Forest, it is considered one of the world's biodiversity hotspots, meaning a biome at risk of extinction due to anthropogenic actions. In the context of the Cerrado, these actions can be analyzed from various perspectives, including environmental impacts caused by economic activities, such as agriculture and extensive cattle ranching, as well as the lack of environmental monitoring and weak policies.Objectives: This study aims to understand the ecological dynamics and the interaction between fauna and flora with an emphasis on the conservation strategies necessary for its preservation, highlighting its importance as a unique biome, as well as the impact of human activities on sustainability. Methodology: Among the existing methodological possibilities, this study will adopt a quantitative approach, which aims to test hypotheses, determine causal relationships, and generalize the results to a larger population based on a sample. Numerical data will be used, with data collection conducted in a structured manner, resulting in information that will be quantified, such as percentages, averages, and standard deviations. Furthermore, interviews will be conducted with community leaders, farmers, and environmental agents to gather information on the use of natural resources, sustainable management practices, and perceptions regarding the conservation of the Cerrado. Main Results: Deforestation in the Cerrado has had severe consequences, surpassing the Amazon in terms of deforested areas, with approximately 1.1 million hectares deforested in 2023, representing a 68% increase compared to the previous year. Additionally, according to the IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) report, environmental degradation in the Cerrado accounts for approximately 10% of Brazil's greenhouse gas emissions. Not only does it reduce biodiversity, but it also impacts the hydrological cycle, leading to changes in precipitation patterns and an increase in the frequency of droughts. A study published in Nature indicated that the loss of native vegetation in the Cerrado is associated with a decrease in soil moisture and a reduction in evapotranspiration, which compromises water availability, impacts the climate, and affects the region's water cycles. The data presented highlight the urgency of effective public policies to address this environmental crisis. Conclusion: Deforestation in the Cerrado is an urgent issue that requires immediate action. The implementation of effective public policies, the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices, and the creation of protected areas are essential for the conservation of this vital biome. It is crucial that government, the private sector, and civil society collaborate to reverse the trends of deforestation and protect the Cerrado's biodiversity for future generations.