Espaços verdes como instrumento de educação ambiental em áreas urbanas: a experiência do bosque da UTFPR-MD

Abstract

In recent decades, increasing urbanization has distanced people from direct contact with nature, creating challenges for sustainable development and quality of life in cities. In this context, urban green areas emerge as strategic spaces to promote environmental education, raise awareness among the population, and encourage sustainable practices. The general objective of this work was to report the case of the UTFPR Forest, Medianeira-PR campus, as an urban green area structured for the development of educational and recreational activities aimed at environmental awareness. Specifically, we sought to present the history of structuring the forest, discuss its pedagogical use in environmental actions, and develop an educational game to complement the activities carried out on site. The methodology adopted consisted of a detailed descriptive study on the historical process of acquisition and structuring of the area from 2013 to 2024, including a phytosociological survey of the plant species present, construction of an accessible interpretive trail, and implementation of a sensory garden. In addition, the educational activities developed in the space were described: discussion groups on biodiversity and sustainability, guided tours along the interpretive trail highlighting local ecological aspects, sensory experiences in the sensory garden; and the creation of an educational game like “Super Trunfo” with information about the native tree species found on the trail. The results demonstrated that the UTFPR Forest has become an important living laboratory for interdisciplinary and inclusive educational practices, receiving more than a thousand visitors in its first year open to the public (2024). The activities carried out provided participants with a greater connection with urban nature, stimulating critical reflections on environmental preservation and ecological citizenship. It is concluded that adequately structured urban green areas are effective tools for promoting meaningful and contextualized environmental education, directly contributing to the formation of more conscious citizens committed to sustainability.