Conservation Unit, Road and Territory: an analysis of the relationship between BR 319 and the Igapó-Açú Sustainable Development Reserve, Amazonas, Brazil

Abstract

This paper is about the potential and menacing relationship between protected areas, highways and tourism in Amazonia. This is a case study in the interfluve of Purus and Madeira River basins, in the southern state of Amazonas, specifically in the Igapó Açu Sustainable Development Reserve, which is crossed by the BR 319 road. Through bibliographical, documental review and fieldwork, an analysis was made regarding the potential, frailties, threats and opportunities of territorial development based on the region’s tourism. It has been concluded that the protected area can be an important factor for territorial development based on the improvement of social conditions and on nature preservation, the tourism development is subordinated to the local community.