Environmental Impacts of Urbanization in Córrego da Serra, in the City Of Nova Venécia-ES

Introduction: This study analyzed the environmental impacts of the Serra Stream, located in the municipality of Nova Venécia, Espírito Santo, to identify and characterize anthropogenic and natural changes along its course. Temporal analyses were performed using satellite imagery (Google Earth and CBERS-4A), calculation of the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), and fieldwork using the Rapid Assessment Protocol (PAR). The results indicated that urban growth over the past few decades has contributed significantly to the stream's environmental degradation, especially in section 3, where a higher incidence of effluent discharge, siltation, impermeability of the banks, and scarcity of riparian vegetation were observed. The PAR revealed a predominance of environmental conditions classified as "poor" in the more urbanized sections, associated with the removal of riparian vegetation and bank erosion. It is concluded that the Córrego da Serra presents a high degree of anthropic pressure, requiring actions to recover riparian forests, control effluents and urban planning to reduce environmental and health risks to the local population. Objective: The objective of this study was to identify the environmental impacts on the Serra stream, in the city of Nova Venécia-ES Theoretical Framework: In the current scenario, the quality of surface water in urban areas has been showing several negative effects due to anthropogenic actions on the environment, with emphasis on silting, undermining, insufficient rainwater collection systems, and inadequate disposal of solid waste and effluents directly into the water body. Method: The methodology included a bibliographic review on the subject in question, as well as the concepts associated with the theme; data collection and preparation of thematic maps regarding the use and occupation of the physical environment; identification and characterization of the impacts that occurred on the mountain stream.. Results and Discussion: The results revealed that the stream has been suffering severe siltation, pollution, deforestation of riparian forests, and disorderly occupation of its banks over the past few decades. It is worth noting that the lack of adequate vegetation along the banks of water bodies, combined with inappropriate use and occupation, compromises soil stability and water quality, in addition to violating environmental legislation, such as the Forest Code. Research Implications: The results of this research can serve as an instrument to work on the issue of environmental education with the communities surrounding the Sera stream, aiming at the preservation and improvement of the quality of the water body.