Paleobotanic site: perception and socio-educational proposals of conservation for the “wood stone” from brejo de Sao Benedito/PI.

Abstract

Paleobotanical sites are evidences that allow to understand the Earth climatic and evolutionary history in ancient times. In this context, the objective of this study was to characterize the socioeconomic profile of the Brejo of São Benedito community, located in the city of Altos/PI, as well as its relationship with the Paleobotanical Site of the respective municipality, in order to propose socio-educational measures on the environment. The survey was conducted with 30 participants from the mentioned locality. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and participant observation, which was analyzed through a qualitative and quantitative approach. Most of the interviewees consist of women, adults, with low education, residing for more than 30 years in the locality, rural workers and married. The data showed that there is an expressive concern about the fossil forest conservation, although an environmental and heritage education that values the individual and collective aspects is necessary. Thus, the practice of a more active citizenship can promote major changes in the social and environmental context, which allows to broaden the meanings and seek solutions in joint terms, based on dialogues amomg residents, institutions and the public power.