Socio-Environmental conflicts and traditional communities in protected areas: A scientometric analysis

Abstract

Although science recognizes that traditional communities are essential for the sustainable management of areas of high biodiversity, they are often neglected in the creation and management of protected areas (PAs), leading to a series of social and environmental tensions. In this context, this study aims to analyze the socio-environmental conflicts involving traditional communities in PAs using a scientometric approach. A total of 263 articles from the Scopus and Web of Science databases were analyzed. The highest scientific productivity was recorded in 2021 (n = 22; 8.37 %). The USA (n = 36; 13.69) had the most scientific output, while Brazil (n = 26; 9.89 %) was the most studied. The thematic map identifies “protected areas” as the central theme, ”indigenous communities“ as a crucial topic, and ”marine protected areas“ as an emerging theme. A percentage of 66.54 % of the studies focused on non-indigenous populations, 16.73 % on indigenous populations, and 16.73 % on both. There was a significant predominance of conflicts involving reserves (50.19 %). The most recurrent socio-environmental conflict is related to access to resources and livelihoods (27.37). The results underscore the urgent need for management strategies and the development of more inclusive public policies that meet the needs and ensure the rights of traditional communities for their well-being. It is essential to actively integrate them into decision-making processes; by adopting this action, it is possible to reduce conflicts and significantly promote the sustainability of protected areas. This approach not only recognizes the importance of these communities but also strengthens the conservation and sustainable use of natural resources.