Accessibility in Conservation Units: case study of the Andorinhas Natural Municipal Park in Ouro Preto and the Ibitipoca State Park in Lima Duarte, Minas Gerais (Brazil)

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the opportunities and gaps present in two Conservation Units in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil: Ibitipoca State Park in Lima Duarte and Andorinhas Natural Municipal Park in Ouro Preto, focusing on the infrastructure that enables the experience of people with disabilities in these parks. Conservation Units contribute to the preservation of biodiversity and the maintenance of ecosystem services that are essential to human well-being. The issue of inclusion in the context of Conservation Units involves not only recognizing the rights of populations living in these territories but also ensuring democratic access to these areas for society as a whole. Accessibility in Conservation Units is a challenge that requires planning, investment in infrastructure, and professional training. The article adopts a qualitative research methodology, based on direct experience, interpretative data analysis, as well as the authors' perceptions of the selected Conservation Units. The study concludes that, although there have been advances in accessibility and the inclusion of people with disabilities, there is still a need to overcome obstacles that hinder full and equitable inclusion.