FISHING SUSTAINABILITY ON THE AMAZON COAST: THE CONTRIBUTION OF LOCAL KNOWLEDGE OF ARTISANAL FISHERMEN FROM OIAPOQUE, AMAPÁ, BRAZIL
Artisanal fishing; sustainability; Amazon coast
The main objective of this research is to understand how the local knowledge of artisanal fishermen from the municipality of Oiapoque, in the state of Amapá, can contribute to the sustainability of fishing in the Amazon coastal zone. The methodology adopted is predominantly qualitative, based on case studies, with the support of quantitative techniques. The methodological choice is justified by the complexity of the topic, which requires the crossing of different sources of information, such as interviews, observations and document analysis, in order to understand the interactions between traditional knowledge, public policies and sustainability. The research is structured around four specific objectives: to survey existing public fishing policies; to identify local knowledge and traditional practices related to sustainability; to understand the demands and challenges faced by fishermen; and to reflect on how these practices can contribute to the formulation of more effective public policies that are appropriate to the local reality. The relevance of the study lies in its contribution to the valorization of traditional knowledge as a basis for participatory and sustainable management models of fishing resources. By analyzing the context of fishing in Oiapoque, a region marked by territorial conflicts, external pressures, overfishing and the absence of specific regulations, the research aims to generate support not only to strengthen local artisanal fishing, but also to promote replicable policies in other areas of the Amazon coast. Thus, this work seeks to combine ecological conservation, territorial justice and the strengthening of traditional communities in the construction of a more sustainable future.