INVISIBLE RIVERS:

The channelling of the Pirapitinga Stream and environmental signage for the production of teachning materials

Abstract

This article examines the historical relationship between the appropriation of rivers by society and the transformations in the urban landscape, highlighting the negative impacts of accelerated urbanization in Brazilian cities, focusing on social appropriation in/from the Pirapitinga Stream, in Catalão (GO). The study dialogues with the "Invisible Rivers Project", developed by UFMG, and aims to develop didactic materials to raise awareness about the importance of rivers in the urban landscape. The qualitative research uses theoretical review, fieldwork, photographs and maps generated in the QGIS software, revealing hidden stretches, effluent discharge and problems such as flooding and siltation. The lack of integrated urban planning aggravates socio-environmental issues, such as erosion and economic losses. The study recommends that sustainable interventions are needed, such as the creation of conservation units and linear parks in the municipality, in order to improve the urban climate and reduce environmental impacts, especially during rainy periods. Environmental education is pointed out as a fundamental instrument to sensitize the population about the preservation of rivers, promoting an integrated management of water resources and more sustainable cities.