Avaliação de impactos ambientais e socioeconômicos a partir da extração de argila na Vila Vintém, Cantá-Roraima

Abstract

The extraction of clay has historically caused significant positive and negative impacts, driven by the practices of the capitalist production model. The absence of effective sustainable development policies allows the continuous exploitation of natural resources, intensifying environmental degradation and increasing socioeconomic disparities. The objective of this work is to evaluate the environmental and socioeconomic impacts of clay extraction in Vila Vintém, Roraima. To this end, satellite images from the Earthexplorer and Copernicus platforms were processed in ArcGIS Pro to classify different ecosystems, using the NDVI as a metric. The Markov matrix analyzed the transition probabilities between land cover categories. For the qualitative research, a semi-structured questionnaire was used to profile the participants, involving 23 potters from the region, addressing socioeconomic and environmental aspects. In the field investigations, techniques such as photographic surveys and consultations of documentary sources were used. The analysis of the transition matrix revealed complex patterns, influenced by events such as floods, fires, and water flow, highlighting the greater resilience of moderate and dense vegetation. It was identified that this activity is associated with precarious working conditions and the precarization of the potters. The lack of proper regulation and oversight has perpetuated unsustainable and informal labor practices, marginalizing workers and limiting their opportunities for socioeconomic advancement. Potters face intense working hours, up to 18 hours a day, reflecting the struggle for subsistence amidst the scarcity of employment opportunities in the region. It was found that the social invisibility of clay extraction workers, evidenced by poor remuneration and precarious working conditions, is prevalent. This scenario reflects structural prejudice and the marginalization of small family operations in favor of a discourse of sustainability. Additionally, various attempts by the state to expel families from their social spaces, without due consideration of their history and contributions to the market, exacerbate the social exclusion and vulnerability of the potter community. Finally, it is evident that there is an absence of current public policies and their proper implementation to improve the quality of life for these workers. The lack of social protection and labor rights exposes potters to significant risks, negatively affecting their health, safety, and well-being of this excluded and socially invisible population.