Social representations on socio-environmental issues in the municipalities of São Luís and São José de Ribamar, Maranhão, Brazil

Abstract

This qualitative research sought to analyze the representations about local socio-environmental problems. Residents of the surroundings of a conservation unit, located in an urban environment, between the municipalities of São Luís and São José de Ribamar, in the state of Maranhão, Brazil, participated in this study. The participants signed a Free and Informed Consent Form, being aware of the confidentiality of their personal information. Then, they answered an interview with questions that deal with the problems perceived in the locality. The urban environment represented presents holes in the asphalt, chaotic traffic, crowded hospitals, schools with poor infrastructure, solid waste in inappropriate places and fauna and flora under threat. Several socio-environmental problems were pointed out, including deforestation, fires, waste disposal, soil sealing, illegal hunting, unnecessary water expenditure, rampant consumerism, etc. The issue of solid waste was the most discussed problem. The various imbroglios pointed out by the group represent the dissatisfaction of an environment that needs improvements in the various socio-environmental aspects. 

DOI:https://doi.org/10.56238/uniknowindevolp-002