Analysis of the environmental vulnerability of the municipality of Prado (BA)

Abstract

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Coastal regions exhibit great complexity due to their geomorphological, geological, pedological, climatic, vegetation, and anthropogenic occupation characteristics, which have shaped and transformed the landscape for over 500 years. Given this inherent natural complexity and the historical occupation by various traditional groups — including riverine populations, Indigenous peoples, and rural communities — it is necessary to conduct socio-environmental studies that can provide integrated diagnoses and prognoses to support efficient and sustainable planning. In light of these circumstances, this study aims to assess the Environmental Vulnerability of the municipality of Prado, following the methodology proposed by Nascimento and Dominguez (2009), and to produce a cartographic dataset at a scale of 1:100,000. The very high and high vulnerability classes encompass mangrove areas, marine plains, and fluvial plains. The medium environmental vulnerability class corresponds to coastal tablelands occupied by pastures and forestry (silviculture). The low and very low environmental vulnerability classes refer to the tops of coastal tablelands that maintain natural vegetation cover. The results of this study can support the development of land use and occupation plans and inform environmental planning efforts aimed at mitigating the environmental impacts affecting the study area.