Assessment of Abiotic Ecosystem Services in Exceptional Landscapes of the Municipality of Algodão de Jandaíra, in the Semi-Arid Region of Paraíba

Abstract

The study addresses the importance of environmental preservation from the perspective of valuing ecosystem services, which are those that arise directly or indirectly from ecosystem functions and satisfy human needs, such as climate regulation, flood control, water supply, and raw material provision, among others. This approach is dedicated to analyzing nature from an abiotic perspective, understanding that the valuation of abiotic resources is essential for sustainable use practices in arid and semi-arid regions, promoting a balance between local development and environmental conservation. This is a qualitative and quantitative study that used data collection and analysis techniques through field observation in the municipality of Algodão de Jandaíra, located in a semi-arid region in Paraíba. It was possible to recognize the area's potential in terms of abiotic ecosystem services, distributed across its exceptional landscapes, confirming the initial hypothesis that local geodiversity plays a fundamental role in providing direct and indirect benefits to the population. This confirmation is an important step toward encouraging environmentally responsible public policies, supporting environmental education, and promoting initiatives that integrate the preservation of natural resources, people's quality of life, and regional development.