A Look at Amazon Basin Seasonal Dynamics with the Biophysical ...

Poster Abstract: A Conceptual Model for Integrated Research on Human Dimension inAmazoniaBertha K. BeckerDepartment of Geography Laboratory on Management – Federal University of Rio deJaneiroAv. Atlântica, 1896/1301 – Copacabana – CEP. 22021-001 – Rio de Janeiro - BrasilE-mail: nfrancina@globo.com ou nfrancina@bol.com.brA Conceptual Model for Integrated Research on Human Dimension in AmazoniaUndoubtly, there has been a great advance in research on Amazonia,particularly in the last decade but, many problems still remain further progress. One ofits major challenges is the disarticulation of research initiatives. Another one is theneed to consider the human dimension since it is recognized that there is no possibilityof environmental protection without the participation and better living conditions ofregional inhabitants.Its means that we need a general framework, which can encompass linksbetween different projects and between natural and social processes. With thesechallenges in mind, a general framework is here proposed based on the major patternsof occupation and use of the regional territory. Research according to thematic lines isfundamental for deepening knowledge but it has not allowed us to reach the necessarylevel of generalization to understand regional dynamics and, to contribute to publicpolicies.Is there a better framework to insert thematic lines than the concept ofterritory? This would allow us to solve the problems pointed out, because:- territory is the space of practice. On one hand, it is a product of socialpractice, associated to the appropriation of a portion of space; on the other hand, it isalso a product used by actors, a means for their practice;- territory expresses the result of the interaction of multiple variables – socialand natural – which determine the process of change;- the major patterns of territorial occupation and use offer a vision of the wholeregion, allowing researchers to locate themselves within it;- research related to one or more of these patterns, offers the possibility of anintegrated and cumulative knowledge of the specific patterns under study and also of theregional dynamics as a whole.Five major patterns of territorial occupation and use are identified:1- primary forests searcely inhabited2- expansion of agropastoral frontier3- socio-environmental innovations4- consolidated settlement5- increased productivyThe model takes into account the central elements of territorial occupation anduse, the main features of its major patterns, and the demands they pose for S/T.