Educação Ambiental como estratégia de mitigação dos impactos socioambientais da Pedreira de Namaacha, Província de Maputo

Abstract

This study analyzes the contribution of Environmental Education to mitigating the socio- environmental impacts caused by the Namaacha Quarry (PN), located in Maputo Province. A qualitative and exploratory approach was adopted, using semi-structured interviews and direct observation as data collection techniques. The data were organized and interpreted using Bardin’s (2016) Content Analysis method. The sample consisted of six PN employees, selected intentionally, and ten residents of the Khulula community, selected through convenience sampling. The results show that, while the quarry provides socioeconomic benefits, such as job creation, drilling of water boreholes, access to electricity, a school, and a health center, it also generates adverse environmental impacts, including dust emissions, noise, cracks in houses, deforestation, and soil and vegetation degradation. The analysis indicates that most participants have a limited understanding of Environmental Education, evidenced by their difficulty in defining the concept and the absence of structured educational initiatives within the quarry’s operations. Nonetheless, employees and community members recognize that EE actions could contribute to reducing the observed impacts. It is concluded that, given the absence of a formal EE programme, it is urgent to implement participatory, continuous, and context-appropriate educational strategies capable of strengthening the quarry’s socio-environmental management, promoting ecological awareness, and improving dialogue between the company and the community.