Preservação dos recursos hídricos e pagamento por serviços ambientais (PSA) no município de Erechim/RS: desafios e potencialidades

Abstract

Environmental issues and climate change are intrinsically related, reflected in impacts on ecological systems such as deforestation, pollution, and the unregulated occupation of land resulting from economic activities. In this context, it becomes essential to adopt integrated environmental assessment instruments, associated with actions for the recovery of degraded areas and control of land use, promoting sustainable and resilient planning in the face of climate change and pressures on ecosystems. Payment for Environmental Services (PES) stands out as a strategic economic instrument for environmental conservation, especially in light of the increasing degradation of ecosystems. Pioneering experiences demonstrate the effectiveness of PES, providing a foundation for its implementation at state and municipal levels. The Municipal Program for Water Resources Conservation and Payment for Environmental Services in Erechim/RS encourages the conservation of springs and permanent preservation areas (APPs), offering technical support and financial compensation to rural landowners who voluntarily join the initiative. This article aims to analyze the effectiveness of the program, considering its environmental, social, and economic impacts, based on a bibliographic review and a qualitative approach. Although the program is being consolidated as a model of effective and participatory environmental policy, its contributions are discussed in light of the challenges of environmental valuation, quantification of ecosystem benefits, and the engagement of rural producers. The article also highlights the program’s main potentialities, including territorial expansion, monitoring plans, and integration with environmental education policies.