Resumo

TIBURCIO SANCHEZ, Argelia. Analysis of Environmental Observatories in Spanish and Portuguese-Speaking Latin America: A Systematic Review. Invest. Geog [online]. 2023, n.112, e60775.  Epub 22-Abr-2024. ISSN 2448-7279.  https://doi.org/10.14350/rig.60775.

In recent years, the creation of measurement tools to evaluate the state of the environment worldwide has been increasing, and among them, environmental observatories stand out. These are presented as a valuable source of information for the study and monitoring of environmental problems. However, despite this growing popularity, no systematic analysis has yet been carried out to understand the diversity and characteristics of environmental observatories in Latin America. In order to address this research gap, the present study was proposed to analyze the environmental observatories developed in the region during the last three decades.

To carry out this research, a systematic review of websites was used as a method to collect and analyze data related to environmental observatories in the region. The methodological framework known as Search, Assessment, Synthesis and Analysis (SALSA) was applied, which provides a multidimensional perspective in the exploration and description of these observatories. Eighty-four websites of environmental observatories in the Spanish and Portuguese-speaking Latin American region were identified. Among the most outstanding findings of the research were: a) diversity of topics and actors; b) data collection and technology; c) levels of development of the observatories; and d) areas of opportunity for the observatories, which are briefly detailed below.

One of the most outstanding findings was the diversity of the issues addressed by these observatories. From monitoring environmental conflicts to water quality and biodiversity, a variety of critical areas are covered. Among these, environmental conflicts emerge as a priority issue in the region, reflecting the need to address disputes related to natural resources.

The study also identified the diversity of actors involved in these observatories. Academia, government, and NGOs play significant roles in their development and operation. This diversified collaboration highlights the importance of a multi-sectoral approach to environmental management.

Another key aspect identified in the observatories is the way in which data are collected. Manual collection and document review are the most common methods, while the use of advanced technologies, such as sensors and remote sensing, is limited. This suggests opportunities to improve the efficiency and accuracy of data collection through the adoption of advanced technologies.

An important contribution of the study is the classification of observatories into different levels of development: basic, developed, and consolidated. This classification provides a clearer understanding of their evolution and effectiveness. The developed and consolidated observatories, which represent a significant part of the total, demonstrate that many projects have reached a solid implementation. The diversity in the duration of the observatories, including those that have been operational for more than 10 years, suggests a certain stability and continuity in their operation, which can be considered an indicator of success and effectiveness.

As a final stage, the study identified several areas of opportunity to strengthen environmental observatories in Latin America, including the adoption of advanced technologies such as sensors and remote sensing to improve the efficiency of data collection. In addition, it highlights the importance of improving transparency in data collection and processing to ensure data quality and reliability. Emphasis is placed on the need to pay greater attention to emerging issues such as climate change and biodiversity loss. The active participation of a variety of stakeholders, including local communities, is considered essential to the effectiveness of the observatories, and it is emphasized that these observatories should focus on how the information collected can be used to support environmental decisionmaking and public policy.

In summary, environmental observatories in Latin America play a fundamental role in environmental management and conservation in a region with a wide diversity. This study provides a comprehensive overview of their functioning, challenges and areas of opportunity. These results can be useful in improving the understanding and use of observatories, as well as in the interaction between different observatories to overcome and improve their data. As Latin America continues to face environmental challenges, these observatories will continue to be important tools to support informed decision making and the promotion of a sustainable future in the region.

Palavras-chave : environmental monitoring; environmental management; socio-environmental observatories; environmental conflict observatories; data collection tools.

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