Regenerative Tourism and Environmental Education: interpretive means for the appreciation of biodiversity in Conservation Units

Abstract

Regenerative tourism emerges as an approach that seeks not only to reduce environmental impacts but also to contribute to the restoration of ecosystems and the strengthening of local communities. In this context, environmental interpretation plays a central role by transforming the visitor experience into an educational process, fostering visitor awareness and enabling the collection of data on biodiversity. This study aims to analyze the results obtained through interpretive means used for data collection in the Campos Gerais National Park, with an emphasis on the biodiversity present in the Furnas do Passo do Pupo. To this end, a mini bird guide and a grassland vegetation guide were adopted, used by visitors to record the species observed along the trails. The results indicate that the methodology employed not only enhanced visitors' environmental awareness but also generated relevant information for monitoring local fauna and flora. The frequent observation of plant species such as Calea parvifolia and animal species such as Patagioenas picazuro suggests patterns related to factors such as seasonality and adaptability to the environment. It is concluded that the use of interpretive means can contribute to biodiversity conservation by promoting a participatory and educational experience, in addition to supporting sustainable management strategies in protected areas.