Educational and Environmental Preservation Practices Promoted by the Urban Collective “Cuidadores da APP Jardim Miriam”

Abstract

Objective - to examine the environmental education and sustainability practices promoted by the urban collective “Cuidadores da APP Jardim Miriam”, based on the theoretical frameworks of tactical urbanism and critical environmental education.

Methodology - this study employed a qualitative approach, including interviews with one of the collective’s key leaders and participant observation during field activities such as cleanup events, tree planting, and technical visits to the urban Permanent Preservation Area (APP).

Originality/relevance - the study is situated within debates on community management of urban green spaces, addressing a theoretical gap concerning the role of urban collectives in sustainability promotion and the revitalisation of degraded territories.

Results - the findings reveal that the collective’s actions significantly contribute to protecting and restoring the area while also engaging the local community in grassroots environmental management and education, benefiting both residents and the city of Campinas.

Theoretical/methodological contributions - the study highlights tactical urbanism as an effective strategy for building participatory, resilient, and inclusive cities, contributing to the theoretical development of collaborative urban management.

Social and environmental contributions - the collective's collaborative practices foster environmental awareness and citizen engagement, creating a decentralised, effective model for managing neglected urban green spaces neglected by public authorities.