Banca de DEFESA: ELISSON YGOURS COSTA DE LIMA

Uma banca de DEFESA de MESTRADO foi cadastrada pelo programa.
STUDENT : ELISSON YGOURS COSTA DE LIMA
DATE: 29/05/2026
TIME: 14:30
LOCAL: Google meet
TITLE:

Socio-environmental impacts associated with the installation phase of renewable energy projects in Northeastern Brazil

KEY WORDS:

Wind energy; Solar energy; Environmental degradation; Energy transition; Wildlife; Brazilian semi-arid

PAGES: 109
BIG AREA: Ciências Agrárias
AREA: Agronomia
SUMMARY:

The energy transition toward renewable sources such as solar and wind power has been promoted as a response to the environmental impacts of the fossil fuel based model. However, although considered clean energy sources, these technologies may also generate negative effects on the environment and on local communities. In the semiarid region of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil, the installation phase of wind and solar energy projects caused both ecological and social impacts, revealing tensions between the discourse of sustainability and the concrete effects of the energy transition. This study aimed to understand these impacts from the perspective of wildlife and the perceptions of settlement communities located in affected areas. To estimate the impacts on wildlife, data collected during fauna rescue and deterrence programs conducted at five energy developments, four wind farms and one solar plant, between 2020 and 2025 were analyzed, totaling 29,099 recorded vertebrate individuals. Mortality rates compared among taxonomic groups indicated that reptiles accounted for most records and exhibited the highest mortality rate (24.6%), followed by mammals (11.2%), amphibians (6.1%), and birds (1.6%). Fossorial reptile species showed particularly high mortality rates when compared to terrestrial and arboreal species. These results highlight an increased vulnerability of this group during the installation phase of such developments. To assess environmental perception, the investigation focused on two agrarian reform settlements located near two energy projects, one wind and one photovoltaic solar development, respectively. Semi structured qualitative and quantitative interview forms were applied to identify the effects of the construction works on settlers and to recognize possible impacts on wildlife. The responses, analyzed using the Content Analysis technique, revealed changes in community routines, increased circulation of vehicles and outside workers, disturbances related to dust, noise, and loss of local tranquility, as well as reports of negative impacts on wild animals and concerns regarding the well being of the communities during the installation of the projects. The findings reinforce that, although renewable energy projects provide energy related benefits, they also generate socio environmental pressures perceived by affected populations. It is concluded that the construction phase may be as problematic as the operational phase, making it essential to consider local ecological and social effects, incorporate the perspective of environmental justice, and ensure community participation in decision making processes so that the advancement of renewable energy truly represents a sustainable pathway.

COMMITTEE MEMBERS:
Interna - 1074041 - ANDREA LEME DA SILVA
Presidente - 1121066 - ELIZA MARIA XAVIER FREIRE
Externo à Instituição - ROMULO ROMEU DA NÓBREGA ALVES - UEPB