Urban Erosion in The Amazon Region: Mitigation and Control Strategies in The Municipality of Buriticupu (MA)

Abstract

Purpose: this work aims to analyze the factors that contributed to the intensification of erosion in the Amazon region of Buriticupu (MA) and discuss possible forms of mitigation and control. Methods: urban area of the municipality was characterized and data on soil, pedology, relief, slope, use and occupation, economic activities developed, as well as satellite images, were collected. This information was used to analyze indicators of natural erosion processes, as well as the influence of human activities. Possible mitigation and control solutions were discussed. Results and discussion: it was found that several aspects contribute to the development of erosion phenomena in the region, such as soil type, slope and hydrology. In the case of the municipality under study, geoenvironmental factors favor the development of gullies. However, the main force has been the action of man in modifying the landscape and weakening the soil. It is understood that it is necessary to implement articulated biogeoengineering strategies, such as controlling the slope and stability of slopes, the water flow regime, plant restoration and environmental education strategies. With this, we can be successful in mitigating the phenomenon and preserving the landscape. Implications of the research: it is urgent to develop shared management measures between federated entities, organized civil society and the local population to map and regulate sustainable development, especially in Amazonian regions. Originality/value: in some Amazonian regions, as in the case of the municipality of Buriticupu (MA), the advancement of agricultural activities and urban development, associated with climate change, have significantly influenced the emergence and advancement of gullies, which can promote the disappearance of the built environment. These gullies are treated as more advanced soil erosion phenomena, serious and difficult to control and remediate. Although erosion is a problem that affects many regions in Brazil, there are still few studies that aim to investigate the causes of its appearance and the discussion about possible solutions applied to gullies in the Amazon region is unprecedented. Agricultural development has accelerated soil degradation and is an urgent problem to be debated.