QUANTITATIVE INVESTIGATION OF URBAN ARBORIZATION: A CASE STUDY IN AN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL IN IPAUMIRIM/CE

The changes observed in natural landscapes, resulting from population growth and urban expansion, represent alterations in environmental quality and the amount of remaining natural ecosystems, negatively impacting the life of flora, fauna, and, by extension, society. This occurs due to phenomena such as climate change and the depletion of essential resources. Therefore, it is crucial to develop alternatives that promote more sustainable growth, minimizing environmental damage. In this study, a quantitative survey of plant species was conducted through an inventory, investigating all arboreal individuals present in the arborization of José Alves de Oliveira School, in the municipality of Ipaumirim, Ceará, Brazil. A total of 26 individuals were recorded, distributed among three species: Azadirachta indica (Neem, 20 individuals - 76.90%) and Ficus benjamina (Ficus, 5 individuals - 19.20%), both of exotic origin, accounting for 96.10% of the total trees; and Carica papaya (Papaya, 1 individual - 3.90%), of native origin. The results reveal a tree planting process lacking technical standards and marked by randomness, as evidenced by the low diversity and the predominance of exotic species, especially Azadirachta indica, characterizing urban monoarborization. It was observed that the trees were introduced (planted) without technical-scientific knowledge, prioritizing species characterized by rapid growth and greater shade provision, which explains the predominance of the Neem species in the school’s arborization. This situation could harm the local flora and fauna. Through proper planning, issues such as local biodiversity could be considered, ensuring the maintenance, balance, and preservation of native vegetation. Therefore, the specific issue identified in this study highlights the importance of this investigation, pointing to the urgent need for strategic and effective interventions to manage urban arborization, including in large urban centers, where the impacts may reach even greater proportions.