NON-FORMAL ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION SPACE IN MANAUS A CASE STUDY OF THE "OCA DO CONHECIMENTO AMBIENTAL CIGS"

Abstract

This study analyzes the project "Oca do Conhecimento Ambiental", a non-formal Environmental Education (EE) activity that emphasizes the protection and preservation of the Amazonian wild fauna and flora, whose space for pedagogical practices works at the Jungle Warfare Instruction Center, in the municipality of Manaus, in the state of Amazonas. The project was conceived by the Judiciary branch of Amazonas State as a substitute of sentences for environmental crimes, with management shared by the Brazilian Army and the Municipal Secretary of Education. The research aimed investigated if the project complies to the principles, objectives, and guidelines of Law 9.795/1999, which deals with EE and instituted the National Environmental Education Policy in Brazil, in addition to investigating its social relevance for the local Community. For the development of the research the case study modality was used, which conciliated data collect by bibliographic, historical, and documentary with the information from on-site visits. It was concluded that, although there are still improvements to be implemented, the project is in harmony with the National Environmental Education Policy and provides a positive social and educational contribution to the population of different age groups and social classes, in favor of environmental citizenship and a balanced environment.