A Atividade de mariscagem do distrito do Galeão, Cairu- Ba

Abstract

Shellfish gathering is a branch of artisanal fishing practiced culturally by families who depend on fishing resources for subsistence and a source of income. The quilombola community of Galeão comprises one of the 26 districts of the archipelago municipality of Cairu that developed economically through plant and animal extraction. Therefore, as a way of ensuring the sustainable viability of local extractive activity, this research aimed to analyze the environmental impacts resulting from the extraction and processing of animal species targeted by shellfish gathering in the district of Galeão, Cairu- Bahia. Using the Community-Based Participatory Research (PPBC) method, different investigative methods were combined, respecting the ethical aspects provided for in the Regulatory Standards and Guidelines for research involving human beings and the health aspects related to care for the COVID-19 pandemic. Structured forms were used to determine the socioeconomic profile of shellfish gatherers, identify the species of animals collected, the points where the animals are collected, the stages of production and the sales value of the product, record the quantity of solid waste collected from the activity, its disposal and use, and actions to improve shellfish gathering in the community. A bibliographical survey of databases and virtual libraries was conducted to propose alternatives for sustainable use of waste as a means of reducing local impact. It was found that most women carry out the activity as a way of ensuring food and income for their families, of which they are the heads. Despite collecting/capturing nine different species, the community's subsistence and economy are strongly tied to crab production, which generates large quantities of waste that is discarded along with household trash or thrown into beach and mangrove areas. In order for shellfish gathering activities to remain viable and artisanal fishermen to continue to pass on their knowledge to future generations, it is necessary to implement environmental education practices that make the population active in the conservation of their natural resources and reuse solid shellfish gathering waste for ecological and economic benefits in the community.