Assessment of the socioenvironmental impact of tourist activity in the Lapinha Grotto, Lagoa Santa, Minas Gerais and the surrounding area

Abstract

By characterizing the socioenvironmental aspects and identifying its consequences, the main focus of this work was to qualitatively evaluate the interference caused by the activities relating tourism that occur in the Lapinha Grotto in Minas Gerais. A bibliographic survey and field research were carried out to identify the extent of the grotto's current status, along with a correlation matrix using the Check List method in order to evaluate the main impact. Besides pointing out the main problems due to environmental degradation of the area, the results show different perceptions by the community on the preservation of the patrimony. Finally, recommendations were made on how to improve preservation and the community's relationship with the Conservation Unit.