Methodological proposal for evaluation of susceptibility to environmental degradation

Land use and occupation is a research theme that contributes to the analysis of territory dynamics, reflected in relationships between society nature modify landscape. These include environmental, spatial, cultural, socioeconomic factors integrate environment from systemic point view perform functions activities capable maintaining or disturbing natural balance environment.Thus, knowing limits environmental systems way live rationally with exploitation resources for development various human activities. Therefore, this study aimed propose method assess degree susceptibility degradation, using geoprocessing techniques, Immediate Geographical Region “Princesa Isabel” (IGRPI), located semi-arid region Paraíba. Geology, pedology, geomorphology, rainfall, vegetation cover, land data were integrated into Geographic Information System compute Biophysical Index Susceptibility Environmental Degradation (BISED) IGRPI. The analyzed more fragile rural areas because factors,since urban there are intense anthropogenic activities, BISED ranged low high, especially municipal seats, indicating region, even being little developed, has opportunity plan future sustainable exploitation.