Perception of urban forests by residents of Brazilian cities in which they are located and their ecotourism potential: the cases of João Pessoa (PB), Natal (RN) and Maceió (AL)

Abstract

This article is based on a study carried out on Atlantic forest reserves of three Brazilian Northeast capitals, João Pessoa (PB), Maceió (AL) and Natal (RN). The term "Urban Forest" was used to identify forest areas located in urban centers. The objective of the work is to understand how the populations of the region interact with the spaces. It also sought, identifies similarities, different potentialities for each unit and discovers how it can be an instrument for Ecotourism practices. Through questionnaires, samples are collected to get a sense of the perception that residents have for reservations. Interviews with parts of managers or resources to know how a business room works, in addition to Environmental education practices and planning models that are used in the long term. The results showed that as social perceptions around the reserves are resulting in a seminar in the way they are treated, both by the government and by the residents. When you are in a place close to areas of social vulnerability, there is apparently little interest in the popular pool. In relation to the residents, it was verified that the greater the participation of the communities in the activities carried out, the greater the degree of understanding.