Environmental monitoring of the ecobarrier in the municipality of Caçador (SC): experience report on PROESDE activities

Abstract

The preservation of the environment is essential for the sustainable development of society. However, various human activities have caused significant negative impacts, such as deforestation and contamination by solid and liquid waste. In this context, this study aims to report the activities of an extension project focused on environmental education through the monitoring of the ECO-BARRIER. Therefore, the present study is part of the Higher Education Program for Regional Development of Santa Catarina and has as its main objective the promotion of environmental education among scholarship students and the population of the studied area. To achieve this, actions such as the maintenance of the ECO-BARRIER and the monthly characterization of the retained waste were carried out, enabling the dissemination of results and raising awareness within the community of Caçador (SC, Brazil). The analysis of the materials collected by the ECO-BARRIER highlights the need for proper waste disposal. Irregular dumping in the streets of the municipality, even indirectly, contributes to the contamination of the Rio do Peixe. This scenario serves as a warning to both the population and public and private entities regarding the importance of efficient solid waste management. Thus, the development of this study proves to be essential in strengthening awareness and expanding the community's perception of the importance of proper waste disposal, contributing to environmental preservation and collective well-being.