Avaliação da dinâmica de provisão de serviços ecossistêmicos múltiplos no alto curso do Rio das Velhas, MG

Abstract

The importance of ecosystems and their services for human well-being has been widely recognized, leading to the emergence of the concept of Ecosystem Services (ES). However, there are challenges in defining terminologies, collecting data in a controlled manner, and developing methods to assess the actual provision of these services. These challenges are particularly evident in areas with intense human activity, such as the Upper Rio das Velhas watershed, which is impacted by various human activities, compromising the provision of ES. In this context, the main objective of this thesis is to understand the dynamics of ES provision in the upper course of the Rio das Velhas region. The thesis addresses the importance of integrating knowledge and social participation in scientific research on ES, encompassing environmental, psychological, and social aspects in the practical application of the theory. Using the Conservationist Use Potential (CUP) as a tool for assessing ES and territorial planning, the thesis proposes strategies to promote the supply of multiple ES in the region. The literature review highlighted the need to adjust search terms to obtain a more comprehensive research, identifying the predominance of exploratory publications and the geographic scope of the studies. The analysis of CUP revealed limitations in the Upper Rio das Velhas region due to its physical environment, especially related to the interaction of slope, soil, and lithology variables. Through principal component analysis, it was possible to identify the influence of urbanization and water quality, which decreases with the intensification of this anthropogenic process, as well as the relationships between urbanization, agricultural intensification, and the occurrence of threatened species were observed. Principal component analysis also allowed grouping sub-watersheds into clusters, providing insights to understand the distribution of ES and guide preservation actions, based on existing official instruments. The interdisciplinary approach adopted in this thesis contributes to understanding the relationship between human activities and ES provision in an ecologically and socially important region. The integration of diverse knowledge and perspectives is essential for the development of appropriate conservation and management strategies for ecosystems and their services