Whale-watching no Espírito Santo: o turismo de observação de baleias a partir da oceanografia socioambiental
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Data
2025-02-26
Autores
Peterle, Pilsen Ca’lía da Costa
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Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo
Resumo
Whale watching tourism, driven by the population increase of the humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae), has become a growing activity in the southeastern region of Brazil, particularly in Espírito Santo (ES), with increasing relevance for environmental conservation and socioeconomic development. However, there are still gaps in the scientific literature regarding its practice in the region. This study aims to analyze, based on stakeholders' perceptions, the forms of use and socio-environmental impacts of whale watching tourism in the coastal metropolitan region of Espírito Santo (ES), southeastern Brazil. From June 2023 to February 2024, interviews were conducted through questionnaires and field diary records. Data analysis involved the use of descriptive statistics, Discourse Analysis, and Triangulation to integrate and confront the information collected. Thirty-six stakeholders were interviewed, including representatives from the public sector (n=21), private sector (n=8), and the third sector (n=7). According to the respondents, the activity, primarily conducted between July and November, shows high potential to promote environmental, economic, and social benefits. The majority of respondents (78%; n=28) recognized its contribution to marine conservation, strengthening the local economy, and fostering an environmental mindset. However, structural and institutional challenges limit the sustainable development of the activity. Key barriers include the lack of specific regulations, gaps in enforcement, insufficient infrastructure, and the absence of inclusive policies that restrict access, especially for people with disabilities, and exacerbate social exclusion. Despite these limitations, the activity is valued for its positive impacts, such as job creation, increased local tourism, and raising public awareness of the importance of marine biodiversity. However, the lack of specific regulations and the fragmentation of environmental governance hinder the adoption of responsible practices and the mitigation of adverse impacts, such as stress in cetaceans and activity overloading. To ensure sustainability, it is essential to implement integrated strategies, such as co-management, involving public authorities, the private sector, the third sector, and local communities, ensuring shared responsibilities and social inclusion. Based on the findings of this study, it is recommended to create a robust regulatory framework – characterized by clear regulations to guide the practice of sustainable whale watching tourism – combined with continuous training for operators and visitors, as well as investments in adapted infrastructure and monitoring potential impacts of the activity. When managed properly, whale watching tourism can be a strategic tool for marine conservation and regional development, including community-based tourism. Through sustainable practices and coordinated actions, the activity can balance human demands with the preservation of marine ecosystems and the enhancement of the natural and cultural heritage of coastal regions.
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Ecoturismo , Pesquisa oceanográfica