Seridó Unesco Global Geopark and the local territorial development process

Abstract

This article evaluates the repercussions of local territorial development in the Seridó Unesco Global Geopark (UGG), based on various conservation actions related to geosites, the UGG's role in education, and activities carried out in partnership with the regional tourism industry. It is a case study, a descriptive study with a qualitative approach, using critical-reflective analysis of the object of investigation. Data collection was based on the methodology developed by Carvalho (2013), which is based on the three pillars of a geopark (conservation, education, and tourism). This work qualitatively evaluated the contribution of the UGG to the local development of its territory based on these pillars. Documentary research and qualitative interviews using Google Forms were used as data collection instruments. Various local actors involved in activities related to the Geopark's territory were interviewed. In the results regarding the conservation of geosites, several actions aimed at protecting geological heritage were identified, such as municipal laws, wooden walkways to protect rock paintings at archaeological sites, environmental education signage, maintenance of structures at some geosites, and an event focused on environmental conservation. Regarding educational activities, various actions were undertaken, including: educational projects, informative live streams, lectures, academic events, the SGMU's own literature, mini-courses, public hearings, local and regional fairs, extension projects, and academic research. In tourism, the SGMU's partnership with various local tourism stakeholders and companies was identified and described, such as travel and tourism agencies, food and beverage entrepreneurs, artisans, local tour guides and drivers, and accommodation providers. In this sense, the SGMU contributes to the territory through conservation, education, and tourism through the activities highlighted in this work.