A View of the Territory Through Participatory Mapping in the Pituba District in Baía Formosa/RN

Abstract

Participatory mapping, through the practice of Social Cartography (SC), directly involves communities in the identification and representation of the physical and social aspects of their territories. This study presents the results of the participatory mapping carried out in the Pituba district, in Baía Formosa, Rio Grande do Norte, in northeastern Brazil. Four methodological phases of SC were followed, adapted to the study area: 1) establishing connections between researchers and the community to understand the local context; 2) using cartographic techniques and conducting thematic workshops; 3) developing and analyzing cartographic materials, including converting analog maps to digital formats; 4) delivering the maps and discussing possible applications. It is expected that the results, especially the highlighted potentialities and socio-environmental issues, will guide municipal public policies and contribute to promoting more just and sustainable development for the Pituba district. It is concluded that the sharing of knowledge and collaboration among all involved have the potential to transform challenges into opportunities. Participatory mapping presents the residents’ perspective and their daily experiences, contributing to the understanding of the territory’s and community’s reality.