Florestas e tradições na conservação da biodiversidade : caminhos para o desenvolvimento regional quilombola no Amapá

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between quilombola ancestral knowledge, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable regional development in the municipality of Mazagão, in the state of Amapá, Brazil, focusing on traditional practices associated with the management of plant species in quilombola territories. Grounded in Black epistemologies, studies on territoriality and ancestry, ethnobotany, and the biocultural diversity approach, the research is based on the assumption that traditional knowledge constitutes dynamic systems of ecological knowledge historically built through interactions between quilombola communities and Amazonian ecosystems. The objective is to analyze how ancestral knowledge related to the use, management, and conservation of flora contributes to biodiversity maintenance and may support regional development strategies based on socio-environmental sustainability. Methodologically, this is a qualitative-quantitative, exploratory, and descriptive study developed through bibliographic review and documentary analysis, encompassing scientific publications, ethnobotanical inventories, institutional reports, and databases related to quilombola communities in Amapá. The analysis reveals that traditional knowledge associated with the use of plant species plays a significant role in ecosystem conservation, biodiversity protection, and the reproduction of quilombola ways of life, articulating ecological, cultural, economic, and symbolic dimensions. The findings also indicate that traditional management practices, agroforestry systems, and sustainable forms of natural resource use constitute important strategies for environmental conservation and the strengthening of Amazonian sociobiodiversity. It is concluded that the recognition and valorization of ancestral knowledge are fundamental elements for the formulation of public policies aimed at territorial management, biodiversity protection, and the promotion of regional development models that reconcile socio-environmental justice, sustainability, and respect for cultural diversity.