Ecological Corridors: A Public Policy Model For Conserving Urban Streams In The City Of Porto Velho – Rondônia

The study investigates the irregular occupation of urban Permanent Preservation Areas (PPAs) in Porto Velho, focusing on residents' perceptions and proposing ecological corridors (linear parks) as a public policy solution. With significant socio-environmental deficits, the city struggles with the impacts of unregulated urban growth, resulting in environmental degradation and risk to residents living along urban streams. These areas face issues like pollution, loss of riparian vegetation, and inadequate urban planning, exacerbating socio-environmental conflicts. Drawing on legislative frameworks such as the National System of Conservation Units (SNUC), the research highlights the potential of ecological corridors to restore ecosystems, enhance biodiversity, and improve the urban environment. Through participatory watershed management, this study suggests a three-step methodological approach: diagnosis of physical and socio-environmental characteristics, prognosis based on the gathered data, and planning for ecological corridor implementation. Surveys reveal widespread occupation and degradation of PPAs, with 71% of respondents recognizing their poor condition and 63% highlighting their importance for urban resilience. Despite the challenges, the majority support preserving these green areas, which offer both ecological and social benefits. This research underscores the critical role of ecological corridors in balancing urban development with environmental sustainability and proposes actionable strategies to address the socio-environmental challenges of Porto Velho.