Transformações no uso e ocupação do solo na área de proteção ambiental Morro da Pedreira - MG entre 1985 e 2022: dinâmicas territoriais e agentes de expansão urbana

This study analyzes the transformations in land use and occupation in the Morro da Pedreira Environmental Protection Area (APAMP) between 1985 and 2022, covering the municipalities of Santana do Riacho, Jaboticatubas, Taquaraçu de Minas, Nova União, Itabira, Itambé do Mato Dentro, Conceição do Mato Dentro, and Morro do Pilar. Using geoprocessing via Google Earth Engine (GEE) and MapBiomas, associated with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) such as ArcGIS and QGIS, the research investigates the interaction between human activities and territorial changes. The methodology involved raster image analysis and the construction of attribute layers, combining quantitative approaches, based on satellite images, and qualitative approaches, using secondary data such as management plans. The study allowed for an assessment of land use transformations and the identification of the main agents involved. Agriculture and livestock farming were the predominant activities, with pasture occupying 23.08% of the area. Agriculture, especially coffee and soy, had a smaller share but showed variations over time. Silviculture grew continuously, reflecting environmental recovery initiatives, reaching 1.56% of the area. Native vegetation suffered losses, especially in the peripheral zones of the APA, due to the expansion of agriculture and livestock farming. Urbanization, despite topographical limitations, gradually increased, reaching 0.11% of the total area in 2022, driven by improvements in infrastructure, such as energy and sanitation networks, and the actions of local governments and real estate investors. The research highlights the complexity of the interaction between development and conservation, evidencing the anthropic impacts on the territorial dynamics of APAMP. Urban and agricultural expansion poses challenges to ecosystem preservation, requiring effective environmental management strategies. The study emphasizes the need for efficient public policies to ensure sustainable growth, promoting integrated territory management and environmental recovery measures to minimize negative impacts and preserve the region's biodiversity.