Perfil do uso da lenha no ramo de produtos alimentícios na cidade de Patos - PB.

Abstract

The Northeast region of Brazil shows a great and rich biodiversity that is enduring constant losses due to the adopted extractivist model. In this model, natural resources are basic to the productive process, but their use is characterized by overexploitation and no concern with sustainability, resulting in scarcity of the natural element and environmental degradation. These resources, especially wood products, contribute to traditional commercial and industrial activities that create jobs and income to many families, and make the region economically viable, but not without a great deal of environmental degradation. The objective of this study was to identify the commercial and industrial food companies in Patos-PB that consume firewood in their productive process, and collect data on the origin, quality and storage of firewood, most common tree species cut for firewood, and the perception of the company owner on the environmental impacts resulting from the use of firewood to sell or produce food products. Data were collected in 21 out of 35 identified companies, and showed that the native forest provides most of the power source used in the productive process of these companies, especially from jurema preta, algaroba and catingueira trees. The owners showed to be concerned with firewood supply to maintain the activity of their companies, but they did not seem aware of the environmental impacts caused by firewood extraction nor of the risk of firewood shortage due to exaggerated cutting and use of native tree species. Some of the company owners showed interested in changes in the productive process, such as the use of new power sources. However, they emphasize that it is necessary governmental support to try and use a new source of power in their companies.