Contribuições para a aplicação da sustentabilidade na Bacia Hidrográfica do Rio das Velhas

Abstract

This study sought to understand the process of degradation of the Drainage Basin of the Velhas River, analyzing the population distribution along the basin, knowing the use and the occupation of the soil in the different forms of relief and its consequences for the quality of the waters of Velhas River and its tributaries. It was possible to perceive the imbalance between the urban and rural demographic density, and that the majority of the population is concentrated in the Belo Horizonte Metropolitan Area. We have seen that a vast expanse of land is being occupied by pastures, a preponderant factor for the deterioration of the Permanent Preservation Areas PPAs, for the fragmentation of biomes and loss of biodiversity, as well as contribute to soil erosion, compaction and waterproofing. In this way, the Agroforestry Systems were presented as a set of agricultural techniques able to meet the needs of the recovery of the pasture areas and, at the same time, allow the establishment of highly productive areas, resulting in the offer of ecosystem services. Subsequently, the multidimensional relationship between Agroforestry Systems, the Sustainable Development Objectives proposed by the UN and governmental organizations and public policies was demonstrated. By combining the environmental, economic and social dimensions, we seek to understand the need to distribute the population along the Velhas River Basin to democratize the use of natural resources, occupy areas with high productive potential, enable health and well-being people and generate income through the reclaimed pasture areas.