Potencial Geoturístico com Ênfase no Patrimônio Petrológico na Vertente Norte do Parque Estadual da Pedra Branca, Rio de Janeiro-RJ

Abstract

Geotourism, a branch of nature tourism, is dedicated to the contemplation and study of geodiversity, promoting both leisure and learning while encouraging awareness of the importance of preserving geological heritage. This study aims to analyze the geotouristic potential of the northern slope of the Pedra Branca State Park (PEPB), with an emphasis on its petrological heritage. The study area presents several potentials for geotourism, given its rich geodiversity. Natural attractions such as Pedra do Osso, Pedra Jesus Vem, and Pedra do Ponto stand out as suitable locations for the development of this type of tourism. Additionally, the active crushed stone mining area, known as Pedreira Bangu, is particularly relevant due to the diversity and exposure of rocks from the Rio Negro Complex, such as Pedra Branca Granite and Favela Granite, which transform the site into a true laboratory for the promotion of petrological heritage. The methodology adopted involved an extensive literature review to understand the concepts of Geotourism, Geoconservation, Geodiversity, Geomining Heritage, and Petrological Heritage, complemented by fieldwork to identify the potentials and challenges for practicing Geotourism on the northern slope of the PEPB. The results indicate a lack of trail management that provides access to natural attractions, whether ecotouristic or geotouristic, and suggest that geotouristic points of interest are neglected by the PEPB administration, lacking promotion and basic infrastructure for visitation. In the case of Pedreira Bangu, a rich diversity of rocks was identified, which can be utilized to promote petrological heritage, especially once mining activities cease. However, several environmental impacts associated with mining were also observed, such as soil ravinement, the generation of waste piles, atmospheric pollution, and alterations in local geomorphology. In summary, the northern slope of the PEPB shows promising potential for the practice of Geotourism, but it requires investments in signage, trail management, and the installation of educational panels that depict aspects of geodiversity.