Mapping mining conflicts in Bahia in the context of neoextracivism

Abstract

The increase in mining processes in Brazil contributes to the intensification of existing tensions around the mining areas and the emergence of new conflicts in these territories. The state of Bahia has shown a growing dynamic in the extractive-mineral sector, especially in recent decades. At the same time, the clashes between mining companies and local communities arising from the various impacts unleashed are increasing. The academic production in this field of analysis, despite growing, lacks studies that problematize the theme in the light of geographic theoretical-methodological categories and enable the expansion and deepening of knowledge concerning the issue of mining, and its contradictions, in relation to the territory. This paper presents the results of a survey that aimed to map mining conflicts in Bahia in the context of neoextractivism. The results enabled the structuring of a database, available on the website of the GeografAR/UFBA Research Group, and present the current panorama of these conflicts; the main mineral substances extracted and researched; the identity territories and the respective exploited and conflicting municipalities; the affected communities or populations and the main dimensions of human life and nature impacted in these contexts. It is expected to constantly update the information in a feedback process that allows the visualization of reality, regarding mining activities and their movement, in view of the dynamism of the Bahian scenario.

Keywords: Mapping; Mining; Conflicts; Territory.