Brazilian Journal of Enviromnent
Open Access Journal
CiteScore
0.5
Indexada na
SCOPUS
QUALIS
B3
2017-2021
quadriênio
Open Access Journal
0.5
Indexada na
SCOPUS
B3
2017-2021
quadriênio
Meio Ambiente e Ciências Sociais | Vol. 13 Issue 3 (2025)
Published in September 27, 2025
The increasing anthropogenic pressure on marine ecosystems has intensified the demand for innovative Marine Environmental Education (MEE) strategies. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of an underwater interpretive trail, conducted at Praia do Forno (Arraial do Cabo, Brazil), as a tool for awareness-raising and learning among Biology undergraduates. The methodology included scuba dives for a preliminary biodiversity survey, the definition of a 120-meter interpretive route, pre- and post-activity questionnaires, and an introductory lecture on marine ecology and conservation. Participants were equipped with snorkels, masks, fins, and floaters, and guided in groups by monitors. Results showed a substantial increase in knowledge about coastal biodiversity, protected areas, and the characteristics of the Arraial do Cabo Marine Extractive Reserve (RESEX-Mar), as well as qualitative changes in the perception of anthropogenic impacts, such as unregulated tourism and lack of public policies. A positive association between environmental education and sustainable tourism was reported by over 90% of the students after the activity. In conclusion, the marine interpretive trail proved to be an effective methodology to integrate teaching, outreach, and socio-environmental awareness, with strong potential for replication in other educational contexts.
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Copyright (c) 2025 Luciano Rapagna, Jaqueline Pereira de Azeredo Rapagnã, Rodolfo Dias Correa, Gustavo Borges de Oliveira, Thalitta Castro de Souza, Thayane Delazari Corrêa, Meline Rossetto Kron-Rodrigues, Gabriela da Silva Marques, Josman Ferreira França
https://orcid.org/0009-0000-7828-1373