Land Use Changes and Agricultural Developments in the Tocantins-Araguaia Basin: 1985 to 2022

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate land use changes and investigate agricultural expansion in the Tocantins-Araguaia basin from 1985 to 2022. Theoretical framework: The Tocantins-Araguaia basin has undergone significant changes in land use and occupation, mainly due to the rapid expansion of agriculture and livestock. This expansion, driven by factors such as the growing demand for food and agricultural commodities, has generated socio-environmental impacts and increased discussion about sustainable use practices in the basin. Methods: Images from the MapBiomas Project were used to generate land use maps and statistical analyses. Results and discussion: The results indicate changes in land use and cover in the basin over the analyzed period. There was a reduction in forest areas, most of which were converted into agricultural areas, which showed significant growth. Analysis of the evolution of agricultural production in the basin revealed an increase in the area allocated to agriculture, mainly for crops such as soybeans, sugar cane and other temporary crops. Research implications: Patterns of change in land use highlight the pressing need to adopt sustainable agricultural development strategies that reconcile food production with the conservation of natural ecosystems and the well-being of family farmers and local communities. Originality/Value: It is important to understand the trends and effects of changes in land use in the basin to guide sustainable natural resource management policies and minimize potential negative effects of these changes on the environment and local communities.