Socio-environmental degradation and role of the State. Case Reserva San Rafael Tekoha Guasu, Paraguay

Abstract

The San Rafael Tekoha Guasu Reserve (RSRTG) is one of the last remaining forests that forms part of the Upper Paraná Atlantic Forest (BAAPA) in Paraguay. The objective of the research was to survey the perceptions of key actors in the Tava'i community regarding the conservation of their natural resources, with special emphasis on the RSRTG, as well as the role of the State in such conservation. The methodology was a case study. Data collection techniques included two focus groups and in-depth interviews with three key community stakeholders. The findings revealed a lack of confidence in the effectiveness of state environmental institutions. There was also a perception of inequality and weakness in the enforcement of regulations, which accelerates environmental degradation (e.g., deforestation and illegal farming) exacerbating inequality by creating a vicious cycle in which conditions are amplified or magnified, benefiting a few and harming many. Producers also recognized the role they play in conservation but acknowledged the need f greater technical support and public policies that include training. It was concluded that the state projects a reductionist view of the problem of RSRTG problem, where the environmental issues do not even seem to be taken into account, and, as a result, there is no symbiosis between social and economic issues.