WATER RESOURCES AND PALM OIL CROPS IN THE TOMÉ-AÇU MICRO REGION SUB-WATERSHEDS, AMAZON, BRAZIL

Resumo

When analyzing the territorial dynamics of palm oil crops, is faced with the lack of discussion about the use of water in palm oil production. Discussions about the use and excess of this input are incipient in studies on palm oil cultivation, and it is important to emphasize topics such as: raw materials, energy, stable climate and favorable water balance. However, as important as the edaphoclimatic factors, are the studies on the watersheds and the watercourses where palm oil crops (Elaeis guineenses) are located. In this context, the physical aspects (linear and sandy) of the Tomé-açu Micro region watersheds (MRGTA) were analyzed. The purpose of the research was to draw an overview of the palm oil territory on water resources and their social and environmental implications. Thus, a fieldwork was carried out to collect data and systematize a georeferenced database with information plans through the Geographic Information System (GIS). As a result, five River Sub Watersheds (SBH) were identified, with variable areas and huge hydrological potential, reaching 13,846.12km² of drainage area, the Acará River SBH. The data showed 22,870.94km² of continuous palm oil monoculture patches, which has been expanding since the 1980s over MRGTA SBHs. Thus, the expansion of palm oil stands may be contributing to the degradation of the environment, especially of water resources, generating conflicts of interest that must be managed based on technique and legislation in order to reduce changes in ecosystems of the region.