Análise dos impactos ambientais decorrentes de atividades antrópicas na Área de Proteção Ambiental (APA) das Dunas do Paracuru, Ceará

Abstract

This study analyzes the environmental impacts resulting from anthropogenic activities in the Environmental Protection Area (APA) of the Dunas de Paracuru, located on the western coast of Ceará, with emphasis on dynamics related to tourism and the circulation of motorized vehicles. The research adopted a qualitative-quantitative approach, with direct observation and systematic recording of impacts in two ecologically sensitive zones: Praia das Almas and the Lençóis Paracuruenses. Variables such as visitor and vehicle movement, trail formation, vegetation and soil degradation, presence of solid waste, and disturbances to local fauna were monitored. Data were collected in two ecologically and touristically relevant areas during the low season, in limited daily intervals. Nevertheless, significant pressure was observed on fragile areas, especially coastal zones and interdunal lagoons. Over the seven-day monitoring period, more than 380 people and 63 vehicles were recorded in the study areas, along with clear signs of human intervention, such as informal trails, erosive furrows, and trampling marks. High volumes of solid waste were also recorded in leisure areas, lagoon margins, and near artisanal fishing structures, including plastic debris, packaging, abandoned fishing nets, and fire remains. Vegetation degradation, signs of soil compaction, and the presence of fauna affected by human disturbance were recurrent throughout the study. The results highlight the urgency of more effective management strategies, such as visitor flow control, infrastructure improvement, enhanced enforcement, and community-based environmental education, aiming to conserve ecosystems and promote sustainable tourism use of the APA.