QUALIFICAÇÃO DE CAVERNAS PARA GEOCONSERVAÇÃO: DA PROPOSTA METODOLÓGICA À DIVULGAÇÃO CIENTÍFICA

QUALIFICATION OF CAVES FOR GEOCONSERVATION: FROM THE METHODOLOGICAL PROPOSAL TO SCIENTIFIC DISSEMINATION

Abstract

In view of the constant threats that the Brazilian speleological heritage has been suffering in recent years and the urgency of strategies for its protection, this article seeks to contribute by providing elements of support and resources for a better characterization, understanding and scientific communication of caves. In order to fulfil these objectives, the study discusses the role of caves in the context of geoconservation and summariz     es the presentation of a method of collective qualification of caves, already published nationally and internationally. As a novelty, this text presents unpublished data from analyses carried out on the results of the application of the method in the Vale do Ribeira, in the State of São Paulo-Brazil and its validation in other karstic regions of the country. Finally, the article provides updated information on ongoing interdisciplinary and educational projects as a result of data obtained through the method.