Banca de QUALIFICAÇÃO: André Luiz Cardoso Ribeiro

Analysis of environmental conditions in the hydrographic basin of the Vassoural stream, a tributary of the Cuiabá river, Cuiabá – Mato Grosso: from research to Geography teaching

Watersheds; Direct Interventions; Urban Expansion; Environmental Awareness; Teaching Geography.

River channels are elements that are present in the urban landscape, highlighting their appropriation, but above all the environmental challenges arising from the disorderly growth of cities. In this sense, the research aimed to analyze the current conditions of river environments in the hydrographic basin of the Vassoural stream, a tributary of the Cuiabá river, Mato Grosso, based on urban expansion in the North region, taking into account the need for environmental awareness among students of the High School. The methodology included bibliographic review, geoenvironmental characterization, preparation of maps and field activities, with emphasis on the application of a Rapid Assessment Protocol in watercourses. In addition to environmental analysis, we worked with integrative methodologies and technologies in high school, taking environmental issues into account. In this sense, it was found that the river basin presents numerous challenges such as water pollution and degradation of river systems, impacts that affect water resources. So, urban expansion took place from downstream to upstream and towards the river system, aiming to occupy “urban voids”. A process strongly influenced by the consolidation of the Political-Administrative Center - CPA, by the presence of the ring road with access to Chapada dos Guimarães but also in parallel with real estate speculation considering high-end and upper-middle class neighborhoods and condominiums. On the other hand, there are also informal neighborhoods and locations and irregular occupations, mainly on the banks of river channels. Consequently, the river system has been degraded due to the suppression of vegetation cover (13.75% of vegetation cover throughout the basin), associated with the occupation of its Permanent Preservation Area, as well as due to the release of domestic effluents and disposal of solid waste. Even with this scenario, the Vassoural stream watershed presented environmental quality classified as Good - 31.36 points. However, it should be noted that this result is the average of all sections and parameters evaluated, as there was a Bad score (1 point) in some of them, such as Margin Stability; Occupancy and Odor of Water. Therefore, Section 10 received the worst evaluation with 27 points, classifying it as having Intermediate environmental quality. After obtaining the data for the environmental analysis, the students' interaction with digital technologies, such as Google Earth, proved to be effective, as, based on the local reality, there was an understanding of how the appropriation of the relief in the Córrego do Rio hydrographic basin Vassoural, considering the production of urban space in the North region of Cuiabá - Mato Grosso, have compromised above all water resources and consequently their environmental quality. This interactive approach reinforces the importance of integrating technology into Geography teaching, promoting dynamic and meaningful learning, while enabling students to understand local environmental challenges. Therefore, the present study brings relevant notes in relation to the use of urban land, using the hydrographic basin as the basis for the production of space, which, consequently, has received its impacts. Furthermore, this analysis, in line with the local reality, provides a reading of the space produced and the protagonism of students as a part of the teaching-learning process.