O TURISMO NAS PISCINAS NATURAIS DE PICÃOZINHO, JOÃO PESSOA, PB – PERCEPÇÕES, CONFLITOS E ALTERNATIVAS.

Abstract

Coral reefs have enormous ecological and economic importance for the world. Since they are fragile environments, discernment is necessary in their exploration. This paper tries to characterize the current form of recreational tourism at the reef of Picãozinho, in João Pessoa – Paraíba by identifying the relation between tourism professionals and the tourists who explore this area of the reef. In order to achieve this goal, qualitative research was applied to the tourism operators and local observation was performed for an analysis of the results that follows, for which grounded theory was used. Based on such analysis, a comparison between this environment and others with similar usage but with sustainable exploration will be presented, as well as propositions for correct and conscientious ways for using it. Keys Words: Coral reef. Sustainable tourism. Use of reefs. Impact Assessment. Alto Sorocaba basin.