Ecoturismo em Jericoacoara: dimensões e desafios

Abstract

Jericoacoara has been considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, being, today, one of the main tourist destinations in Brazil. However, the disorderly growth of tourist activities has especially affected the livelihood of the local community and the natural landscapes and ecosystems of the region. In this context, the objective of this work was to identify problems related to tourist activities, through the perception and awareness of residents and tourists in relation to the National Park and the Village of Jericoacoara from the environmental, social and tourist point of view. Ecotourism is introduced here as a possible alternative to order tourist activities in the region. Ecotourism can be considered appropriate for Jericoacoara because it takes into account, unlike other tourism segments, not only the economy growth but also and especially the conservation of the natural ecosystems of the area, together with the maintenance of social issues. This is achieved through the participation of an entire local community. Field data was collected through the application of questionnaires applied to residents and visitors, and in loco identification of environmental and social problems. It was then verified a disordered growth of tourist activities. This resulted in: (1) environmental problems in the Village, especially in relation to garbage; (2) precariousness or complete absence of environmental education; (3) residents and tourists distant from the Park as a conservation unit and the environmental importance of the region; (4) improper use and occupation of space; (5) a good acceptance of tourism by the residents, despite the problems identified; (6) the acknowledgment of the benefits generated by the implementation of the Park to the community, especially the trade; (7) little control over the vehicles entering the park; and (8) acceptance to a new tourist plan which aims to the improvement of social and environmental issues in the region. In conclusion, a tourism planning for the area is urgently needed. This tourism plan should aims not only to meet the demand of tourism, but also and mainly the preservation of nature and the inclusion of the community, as a whole, in the economic growth of the Village. In this context, the present study presents components for the elaboration of an ecotourism planning for the region that, if done correctly, will have the potential to minimize the problems identified here.