CAVERNAS EM ROCHAS CARBONÁTICAS NO ESTADO DA BAHIA: FORÇAS, FRAQUEZAS, OPORTUNIDADES E AMEAÇAS

CAVES IN CARBONATE ROCKS IN THE STATE OF BAHIA: STRENGTHS, WEAKNESSES, OPPORTUNITIES AND THREATS

Abstract

The state of Bahia has a rich Speleological Heritage. Among its hundreds of caves, some stand out for their scientific and scenic importance, such as Toca da Boa Vista and Brejões Cave. However, the speleotourism potential in Bahia is under-exploited, with weaknesses related to the lack of action by the competent environmental agencies, the low socioeconomic indicators, and the insufficient infrastructure in the municipalities that have tourist caves. Activities such as mining and agriculture, and structures such as highways and wind farms threaten the integrity of caves and karst. Through sustainable management practices, provided and encouraged by speleotourism, there is a high development potential for the communities surrounding the main caves. With proper management, speleotourism also ensures greater protection of the Speleological Heritage. Using SWOT analysis it is possible to visualize the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats associated with speleotourism in Bahia.