Conservation areas, poverty and social inequality: an evaluation using socioeconomic indicators in Minas Gerais, Brazil

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the possible correlations between the socioeconomic development indicators of the municipalities of Minas Gerais, Brazil, and the presence of both sustainable use and full protection conservation areas (CAs). The Human Development Index (HDI) and Gini Index (GI) values were compared between municipalities with and without CAs using the non-parametric Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney test. The correlations between the HDI and GI of each municipality and its areas occupied by CAs were analyzed using the non-parametric Spearman correlation test. A total of 560 CAs were identified in the 853 municipalities of the state. The HDI values of municipalities with CAs were not significantly different from those of other areas, but significant differences were found in the GI values, which were higher in municipalities with CAs. No significant correlations were found between the HDI of municipalities and their areas occupied by CAs. However, significant correlations were found between the GI and areas occupied by CAs, suggesting that the CAs are associated with greater socioeconomic inequalities. Populations should be included in conservation efforts through programs that benefit these individuals, such as payment for environmental services and other conservation strategies.