Public understanding of science projects faces the challenge of breaking away from the complex language used in scientific work in order to make knowledge accessible to everyone. The Caminhos Geológicos Project (Geological Paths) seeks to make the geology of the State of Rio de Janeiro understood by the lay public, mainly by means of interpretive panels located in places of touristic interest, with the final intention of promoting the geoconservation of these sites. In an attempt to evaluate the visitors' level of understanding of the panels, a questionnaire was used in six localities, aiming to identify user profile and their perception about the project and the content of the panels. The results obtained by an opinion poll conducted in 2008 allow us to argue that the project has managed to achieve its goals. The study identified the need for reducing the amount of text and modifying the structure of the panels in order to reduce the need for maintenance. The visitors also showed interest in obtaining additional information, which suggests the use of brochures, guides, and other media. High school teachers have recognized the educational value of the panels, taking their students to the signs so they could study geology. Communication between project and society was established, although it is still necessary to deepen the research universe in qualitative and quantitative terms.
A mudança do paradigma ambiental mostrou a necessidade de se repensar as práticas de apropriação dos sistemas naturais, e, também, a criação de novos instrumentos que incentivem a preservação desses sistemas. Foi visando justamente à recuperação dos sistemas degradados que surgiram os programas de pagamento por serviços ambientais (PPSA). O objetivo do presente trabalho foi analisar a temática do pagamento por serviços, enquanto uma política ambiental voltada para a promoção da sustentabilidade socioambiental. Ao longo do trabalho, foi feita uma discussão sobre o conceito de desenvolvimento sustentável e como ele implica na política de pagamento por serviços ambientais. Além disso, foi apresentado um panorama dos programas implementados no Brasil. Observa-se que os programas de pagamento por serviços ambientais no Brasil ainda estão se consolidando.
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