Territorial dynamics on indigenous lands of Mato Grosso do Sul

Dourados Indigenous Reserve, Ñande Ru Marangatu Indigenous Land and Amambai Indigenous Land

Abstract

The state of Mato Grosso do Sul is characterized by agricultural, mining, industrial and commercial activities, which boost the economy but generate serious socio-environmental impacts, especially on indigenous communities. The state's protected areas, which include Indigenous Lands, have remained mostly isolated mosaics and are vulnerable to agrarian conflicts and socio-environmental impacts of various forms and magnitudes. The study aimed to understand the territorial dynamics of three Indigenous Lands on the border of Mato Grosso do Sul and Paraguay, using geotechnologies to map land use and cover and the physical characteristics of the soil and relief (elevation and slope). The results showed that although the areas have different natural structures and characteristics, there is evidence that the production of space generates similar territorial dynamics, causing pressures on indigenous communities. The data provides a basis for public policies aimed at managing the use of the territory around the Indigenous Lands, while at the same time questioning the current model of development and land use.