Name
Cybercartography and Territorial Representation: A Cybercartographic Atlas for Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Maranhão, Brazil
Date & Time
Wednesday, May 21, 2025, 11:00 AM - 11:15 AM
Description

The state of Maranhão, in northeastern Brazil, features a diverse geological framework with extensive fluviomarine plains and the largest coastal dune fields in the country. The Lençóis Maranhenses region, located along the eastern coast, is marked by unique geomorphological features, including vast white sand dunes and seasonal freshwater lagoons. This area includes the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, established in 1981 to protect its landscapes and biodiversity, though significant portions of dunes and lagoons extend beyond the park's limits. The region's fragile ecosystems—such as restinga, mangroves, and dune fields—are home to traditional communities whose livelihoods depend on sustainable practices like fishing, small-scale agriculture, and crafts. However, these communities face social inequalities, with inconsistent access to essential resources such as electricity. The Lençóis Maranhenses Socioenvironmental Atlas applies a cybercartographic approach, as described by Pulsifer, Caquard, and Taylor (2007), integrating multimedia, interactive interfaces, and community participation. This methodology highlights the interaction between natural and human landscapes, fostering inclusive knowledge production. Despite its ecological and cultural significance, the region has never undergone a comprehensive, multidisciplinary study in the form of an atlas. The Atlas aims to support environmental and cultural preservation while encouraging the participation of academics, policymakers, and society. This methodological framework can also be adapted to other regions in Brazil, including indigenous and quilombola communities.

Location Name
Canal (CB) 3400
Session Type
Oral Presentation
Abstract ID
300
Speaker Name
Mauricio Eduardo Salgado Rangel
Speaker Organization
Carleton University
Session Name
CS 133A Environmental and Urban GIS