Geoparque Caçapava: Diagnostics and partners' perceptions

Abstract

Geoparks are geographical areas of international geological relevance, with potential for economic growth and sustainable development. In Brazil, six territories have already been approved, one of them being the Caçapava Geopark, the object of this study. The objective of this work is to carry out a diagnosis and identify partners' perceptions about the Geopark. As a methodological form, an instrument was created that served as a guide for interviews with partners. Descriptive statistics and exploratory factor analysis were used for analysis. 59 Geopark partners were interviewed. The diagnosis revealed that the majority of partners are small businesses that carry out entrepreneurial activities, with emphasis on gastronomy and agriculture. Most partners participate in the events, some geoproducts have already been developed, but there has not yet been a significant hiring of employees or a significant increase in production. The research also identified good perceptions about the Caçapava Geopark, as well as points for improvement, such as infrastructure, greater professionalization of the coordination and precautions of the legal entity.