Land use to agriculture and planted forests strongly affect the genetic diversity of Baccharis crispa Spreng., a native herb of South America.

Human population growth constantly requires an increase in the production of food and products from the timber industry. To meet this demand, agriculture and planted forests are advancing over natural areas. In view of this, it is necessary to know the effects of land use for different purposes (grain production, pastures, planted forests, fruit production and among other uses) on the genetic diversity of populations of native species. This knowledge can assist in land use planning as well as in the development of conservation strategies for native species. In this study, we evaluated the effect of land use for agriculture (mainly for cereal production) and planted forests on the genetic diversity of Baccharis crispa Spreng., a herb native to South America. To achieve our goals, we compared population genetic data obtained with three molecular markers (microsatellites, inter-simple sequence repeat and isoenzymes) with data on land use for agriculture and planted forests from 15 different locations. Our results showed that regardless of the molecular marker used, the greater the use of land for agriculture and planted forests, the lower was the genetic diversity of B. crispa populations. Baccharis crispa is a semi-perennial species that needs at least one year to reach its reproductive period, which is prevented in agricultural areas due to the land being turned over or dissected with herbicides every 6 months. In the studied regions, the planted forests are of eucalypt and/or pine, which besides being species with a high production of allelopathic substances, produce strong shading and B. crispa is a species that inhabits open grassland that needs a high incidence of sunlight for development. The data obtained in our study can assist in the decision-making to use land in order to reconcile the production of supplies for humanity and for the conservation of nature.

Blue carbon storage in a sub-Antarctic marine protected area.

High-latitude ecosystems have been overlooked in carbon budgets, which traditionally focus on mangroves, salt marshes, and seagrasses. The benthic assemblages and their Nature Contributions to People in Namuncurá - Burdwood Bank I and II, two offshore sub-Antarctic Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), are the conservation values. Here we show that the carbon reservoirs of these MPAs can be greater than those of their Antarctic counterparts, which, together with their extension, emphasize the need to maintain their protected status. Considering their total area, these MPAs stored in biomass 52,085.78 Mg C, corresponding 34,964.16 Mg to organic carbon (OC) and 17,121.62 Mg to inorganic carbon (IC). Surficial sediments stored 933,258,336 Mg C with 188,089,629 Mg of OC and 745,168,707 Mg of IC. However, when accounting for CO2 production through CaCO3 precipitation, the IC fractions decrease to 3,150.37 Mg C and 137,111,042 Mg C for biomass and sediments, respectively. We assume low sediment deposition due to the oceanic location, as direct sedimentation rates for these areas are unavailable. Most blue carbon assessments have focused solely on OC, despite the formation of CaCO3 releases CO2, decreasing net carbon storage. We compared various approaches for incorporating carbonates into carbon estimations. These results underscore the importance of including IC into carbon assessments and highlights the importance of sub-Antarctic benthic ecosystems as nature-based solutions to climate change.

Bridging the gap between ecological succession of fleshy-fruited shrubs and restoration frameworks in semiarid oldfields.

Abandoned agricultural areas (i.e. oldfields) represent an opportunity for natural vegetation recovery, increasing soil carbon sequestration and lessening the impacts of climate change and desertification. Ecological succession in oldfields can be hampered by the harsh conditions of semiarid and arid ecosystems, and hence, restoration actions may be needed in some contexts to reactivate the ecosystem functioning. Fleshy-fruited shrubs are indicators of progression in the ecological succession, which can shift notably across environmental gradients, making difficult to obtain robust conclusions at regional scales. Other poorly studied aspects at such scales (agricultural legacy, structural features and local landscape effects) add to this knowledge gap. Here, we study the species-specific natural colonization patterns of fleshy-fruited shrubs in semiarid oldfields across environmental gradients in the Southeast of the Iberian Peninsula taking into account specific traits of plants. We used Hierarchical Modelling of Species Communities (HMSC) to test the influence of the time since the abandonment and the past land-use history of the oldfields, and the effect of local structural factors, such as the presence of remnant trees and natural patches of vegetation, on the shrub recolonization patterns. We found that altitude and lithology conditioned the structure of shrub communities, allowing the selection of different focal species for making recommendations for restoration. Time since abandonment was not relevant for the colonization process. The persistence of remnant trees in the oldfields showed a positive effect on the occurrence of several shrub species. Close sources of propagules (terrace edges and/or natural vegetation patches) benefited the occurrence of certain species mainly at lower altitudes. Traits of species (growth form, root depth, dispersal mode, fruit length and water content) helped to explain the performance of species along the environmental gradients. We identified the main drivers of natural colonization of fleshy-fruited shrubs in semiarid oldfields across environmental gradients, providing ecological knowledge to guide scientists and practitioners to develop nature-based restoration frameworks. Different management actions are recommended according to the environmental gradient.

Ecological networks in savannas reflect different levels of hydric stress in adjacent palm swamp forest ecosystems.

Palm swamp forests are wetland ecosystems typical of the Brazilian Cerrado, which in recent decades have undergone intense changes due to land use alterations and climate change. As a result of these disturbances, many palm swamps have been experiencing significant drying, which can also affect adjacent vegetation. In the present study, we evaluated whether the drying of palm swamps affects the structure of plant-herbivore networks located in adjacent savanna areas in Brazil. Our results show that savanna areas adjacent to dry zones of palm swamps have fewer interactions, fewer interacting species, and a less specialized topology, which corroborates our expectations. Our findings indicate that the drying of palm swamps also has propagated impacts on adjacent savanna vegetation, impairing more specialized interactions in these environments. On the other hand, contrary to expectations, plant-herbivore networks in dry zones displayed higher modularity, lower nestedness and lower robustness than those in wet zones, suggesting that in dry environments, species tend to compartmentalize their interactions, even with lower interaction specialization. This is the first study to investigate the impacts of environmental drying on the structure of plant-herbivore networks in tropical ecosystems, highlighting the complexity of these effects and their differential impact on specialized and generalized interactions. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for developing effective conservation and management strategies in the face of ongoing environmental changes.

Which dimensions of nature contact in Urban Green Spaces most significantly contribute to mental wellbeing? A multidimensional analysis in Brazilian metropolitan cities.

BACKGROUND: Urban environments pose challenges to mental health, an issue that Urban Green Spaces (UGS) can potentially mitigate. While the benefits of nature contact for mental wellbeing are recognized, a multidimensional analysis remains unexplored. PURPOSE: This study aims to fill this gap by examining the association between nature contact within UGS and mental health. It underscores the importance of considering multiple dimensions of nature engagement-such as naturalness, intensity, duration, frequency, and infrastructure-in enhancing psychological wellbeing. METHOD: A comprehensive analysis, including canonical correlation, multivariate analyses of variance, and Fisher discriminant analysis, was applied to survey data from several Brazilian metropolitan cities to assess how different aspects of nature contact influence mental health. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Findings reveal association between these dimensions and mental wellbeing indicators, highlighting the importance of a multidimensional perspective. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: Results advocate for incorporating diverse aspects of nature contact in UGS design and policy-making to enhance urban dwellers' mental health. FUTURE DIRECTIONS: Further research should focus on longitudinal studies and explore the mediating effects of socio-demographic factors. Additionally, expanding research to include other developing countries will provide valuable comparative insights.

One Health as a potential platform to rescue the neglected fruit trees in Yucatan, Mexico.

Neglected and underutilized species of plants (NUS) have been identified by the Food and Agriculture Organization as valuable resources for fighting poverty, hunger and malnutrition as they can help make agricultural production systems more sustainable and resilient. Adaptation of NUS to changing environments over several millennia has rendered most of these plants resistant to pests and climate change. In this paper, we explore the potential values of some of the Mayan fruit trees justifying conservation efforts in their native habitats. Our research was primarily based on a scoping review using Google Scholar. We considered articles published in English, Spanish and Portuguese. Our review rendered two sets of articles including those focusing on the nutritional and medicinal properties of NUS and their products, and those focusing on their uses in traditional medicine. Both sets of papers strongly support arguments for conservation of NUS. Additionally, our scoping review expands and includes a case study on the conservation of NUS, highlighting the critical role of civil society on how it can spearhead rescue efforts of botanical resources through the creation of what is possibly the first arboretum of its kind in the Americas. Among the project's key selling points was not only the rescue of an important component of Yucatan's cultural heritage but its nutritional value as well as its potential medicinal properties. Our paper is not prescriptive on how to preserve or even commercially exploit NUS. It is intended as a thought-provoking piece on the potential of a One Health approach as a multisectoral platform to support conservation efforts, while stimulating greater interest in the subject and encouraging more action from the academic and pharmaceutical sectors as well as civil society.

Efficient Mako Shark-Inspired Aerodynamic Design for Concept Car Bodies in Underground Road Tunnel Conditions.

The automotive industry continuously enhances vehicle design to meet the growing demand for more efficient vehicles. Computational design and numerical simulation are essential tools for developing concept cars with lower carbon emissions and reduced costs. Underground roads are proposed as an attractive alternative for reducing surface congestion, improving traffic flow, reducing travel times and minimizing noise pollution in urban areas, creating a quieter and more livable environment for residents. In this context, a concept car body design for underground tunnels was proposed, inspired by the mako shark shape due to its exceptional operational kinetic qualities. The proposed biomimetic-based method using computational fluid dynamics for engineering design includes an iterative process and car body optimization in terms of lift and drag performance. A mesh sensitivity and convergence analysis was performed in order to ensure the reliability of numerical results. The unique surface shape of the shark enabled remarkable aerodynamic performance for the concept car, achieving a drag coefficient value of 0.28. The addition of an aerodynamic diffuser improved downforce by reducing 58% of the lift coefficient to a final value of 0.02. Benchmark validation was carried out using reported results from sources available in the literature. The proposed biomimetic design process based on computational fluid modeling reduces the time and resources required to create new concept car models. This approach helps to achieve efficient automotive solutions with low aerodynamic drag for a low-carbon future.

Is Having Urban Green Space in the Neighborhood Enough to Make a Difference? Insights for Healthier City Design.

Background: Prior research indicates that engagement with nature is associated with mental well-being; however, the impact of accessibility to urban green spaces (UGS) with suitable infrastructure for visitation and physical activities, like leisure or recreation, remains underexplored, particularly in developing countries. Purpose: This study delves into whether merely having green space in the neighborhood is sufficient to impact residents' mental health in Brazilian metropolitan regions. Method: Utilizing a cross-sectional survey, data were collected from 2136 participants. The analyzed variables included the intensity, duration, and frequency of nature engagement, suitability of UGS for visitation and physical activities, and mental well-being indicators measured by the DASS-21 scale. Multivariate statistical analyses and multiple regression models were employed to verify hypothetical relationships. Results and conclusions: Higher intensity, duration, and frequency of nature engagement in UGS were significantly associated with lower depression, anxiety, and stress scores. Notably, having urban UGS in the neighborhood alone was not enough to reduce mental health issues. Practical implications: The findings point out the need for urban planning policies that prioritize the development of high-quality, accessible green spaces to maximize mental well-being benefits. These insights could inform city designs that foster healthier urban environments. Future directions: Longitudinal studies are needed to establish causality between nature engagement and mental health improvements. Further research should incorporate objective measures of nature engagement and explore more aspects of green space quality, such as biodiversity and amenities.

Recognizing Patterns of Nature Contact Associated with Well-Being: An Exploratory Cluster Analysis.

Statement of Problem: Progressive urbanization has reduced human interactions with nature, raising concerns about its impact on mental well-being. Previous research has often focused on specific aspects of nature contact, neglecting its multifaceted dimensions and their effects on mental health, particularly in developing countries. Research Gap: There is a scarcity of studies exploring the comprehensive dimensions of nature contact, such as frequency, duration, intensity, and space naturalness, and their correlation with mental well-being in developing countries' urban settings. Purpose: This study aims to identify patterns of nature contact related to mental well-being in metropolitan areas of Brazil using exploratory cluster analysis, bridging the existing knowledge gap and informing targeted interventions to enhance mental health through nature contact. Method: An online survey collected data from 2136 participants in Brazil's metropolitan areas, focusing on their nature interaction patterns and mental health status using the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21), hierarchical clustering with p-values via multiscale bootstrap resampling, and analysis of variance. Results and Conclusions: Three distinct groups were identified, showing varied patterns of nature contact and demographic profiles. Greater and more frequent nature contact was associated with lower levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. These findings suggest a beneficial relationship between nature contact and mental well-being. Practical Implications: The results underline the importance of urban planning and public health policies that facilitate access to natural spaces, highlighting socioeconomic factors as significant barriers to this access. Future Directions: Further research should explore causal relationships and consider the specific realities and challenges faced by residents of developing nations.

Natureza e paisagem: a dupla face da montanha / Nature, and landscape: the dual face of the mountain

Por que admiramos e subimos montanhas? Para discutir essa questão, iniciamos esclarecendo as diferenças conceituais entre natureza e paisagem e como se dá a experiência estética paisagística, subjetiva e objetiva ao mesmo tempo, com o apoio da Filosofia da Paisagem. Na sequência, com base na historiografia da paisagem e na literatura da arte, narramos a invenção cultural da montanha no imaginário universal, no qual afirmou-se como uma realidade compósita, natureza e paisagem. Essa condição a faz admirada e visitada tanto pelos seus atributos naturais quanto pelos imateriais e afetivos. Dá-lhe também um valor estratégico: subir montanhas é uma experiência física e estética que nos incita a pensar, enriquece os nossos sentidos e imaginação, fundamentais para a nossa consciência de mundo. Do seu alto alcançamos tanto belezas quanto destruição e isso nos conduz a posicionamentos éticos. A decisão, em paisagem, é topológica.

Why do we admire and climb mountains? To discuss this topic, we begin by explaining the conceptual differences between nature and landscape and how the aesthetic experience of landscape occurs, with the support of the Philosophy of Landscape. Based on the historiography of the landscape and the literature of art, we continue to narrate the historical path of cultural invention of the mountain within the universal imaginary, in which it asserted itself as a double reality, nature and landscape. This condition made it admired and experienced by both their natural attributes and their immaterial and affective values. It also gives to it a strategic value: climbing mountains is both aesthetic and physical experience that incites us to think, enriches our senses and imagination, fundamental to our awareness of the world. Over the mountain, we can see beauty or destruction, and this leads us into ethical positions. The decision, in landscape, is topological.

Smart Anklet Use to Measure Vascular Health Benefits of Preventive Intervention in a Nature-Based Environment-A Pilot Study.

The present study aimed to investigate the associations between nature-based intervention and peripheral pulse characteristics of patients with PAOD using new smart technology specifically designed for this purpose. A longitudinal panel study performed between 1 January 2022 and 31 December 2022 included 32 patients diagnosed with peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAOD) who were treated in the vascular surgeons' hospital "Dobb" in Valjevo. These patients were exposed for six months to moderate-intensity physical activity (MPA) in a nature-based environment. They practiced 150 to 300 min of walking 6 km/h and cycling activities (16-20 km/h) weekly as recommended for patients with chronic conditions and those living with disability. Univariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with major improvements in peripheral pulse characteristics of patients with PAOD. After six months of MPA, half of the patients (50%, 16/32) achieved minor, and half of them major improvements in peripheral pulse characteristics. The major improvements were associated with current smoking (OR = 9.53; 95%CI = 1.85-49.20), diabetes (OR = 4.84; 95%CI = 1.09-21.58) and cardiac failure, and concurrent pulmonary disease and diabetes (OR = 2.03; 95%CI = 1.01-4.11). Our pilot study showed that patients with PAOD along with other chronic conditions and risk factors benefited more from continuous physical activity in a nature-based environment.

The first peoples of the Atacama Desert lived among the trees: A 11,600- to 11,200-year-old grove and congregation site.

In deserts, water has been singled out as the most important factor for choosing where to settle, but trees were likely an important part of the landscape for hunter-gatherers beyond merely constituting an economic resource. Yet, this critical aspect has not been considered archaeologically. Here, we present the results of mapping and radiocarbon dating of a truly unique archaeological record. Over 150 preserved stumps around five Late Pleistocene/Early Holocene archaeological campsites (12,800 to 11,200 cal BP) show that trees were key features in the creation of everyday habitats for the first inhabitants of the Atacama Desert. At two of these sites, QM12 and QM35, the spatial and chronological correlation between trees and hearths reveals that people located their homes under the tree canopy. At residential site QM35, artifact distribution coincides with a grove dated to ~11,600 to 11,200 cal BP. A third residential area (QM32) occurred along the grove margins ~12,000 to 11,200 cal BP. Based on the distinct cultural material of these two camps, we propose that two different groups intermittently shared this rich wetland-grove environment. The tree taxa suggest a preference for the native Schinus molle, a tree scarcely present on the landscape today, over the endemic, nitrogen-fixing Strombocarpa tamarugo, both for toolmaking and firewood and even though the S. tamarugo was locally more abundant. Together with the spatial and chronological coincidence of campsites, hearths, and trees, we propose that people spared the most abundant and resilient species to create their homes, in turn promoting fertility oases amid the Atacama's hyperaridity.

Using the Red List of Ecosystems and the Nature-based Solutions Global Standard as an integrated process for climate change adaptation in the Andean high mountains.

Under anthropogenic pressures and climate change, most ecosystems are showing signs of reduced resilience. Unfortunately, some are more at risk of collapse and, without interventions, they may lose biodiversity, ecological integrity and ecosystem services. Here, we describe two tools that were developed under the auspices of the International Union for Conservation of Nature, the Red List of Ecosystems and the Nature-based Solutions Global Standard, and their capacity to first identify the ecosystems at risk of collapse in a nation and then develop solutions based on nature to improve their resilience. Nature-based solutions include, for example ecosystem-based adaptation, where solutions are developed to meet the needs of the local people while protecting nature to ensure greater resilience of the social-ecological system, not only the natural ecosystem. We discuss through a case study in the Andean high mountains and páramo social-ecological system how these approaches have been used in Colombia. We then discuss lessons learned and challenges that may reduce the capacity of a community to initiate such interventions, such as national policies and funding restrictions. We also discuss through another early case in Ecuador the importance to adapt these types of interventions to the geographical and cultural context of the social-ecological systems. This article is part of the theme issue 'Bringing nature into decision-making'.

Natural Environments in University Campuses and Students' Well-Being.

Most recent university campuses follow the North American model, built on city limits or countryside, with large separate buildings in open green spaces. Studies suggest that the prevalence and severity of mental health issues among university students has been increasing over the past decade in most countries. University services were created to face this growing problem, however individual-based interventions have limited effects on mental health and well-being of a large population. Our aim was to verify if and how the natural environment in campuses is focused on programs to cope with the issue of mental health and well-being among students. A systematic review of literature was undertaken with search in Scopus and LILACS with the keywords "green areas" AND "well-being" AND "Campus", following PRISMA guidelines. As a result, 32 articles were selected. Research on the topic is recent, mostly in the USA, Bulgaria, and China. Most studies used objective information on campuses' greenness and/or university students' perception. Mental health was usually measured by validated scores. Findings of all the studies indicated positive association between campus greenery and well-being of students. We conclude that there is a large potential for use of university campuses in programs and as sites for students' restoration and stress relief.

The Effects of Nature Exposure Therapies on Stress, Depression, and Anxiety Levels: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: Mental well-being plays a pivotal role within the broader spectrum of health and illness, encompassing factors such as stress, depression, and anxiety. Nature-based therapeutic interventions have emerged as a promising approach to addressing these mental health challenges. This study seeks to assess the impact of these interventions on stress, depression, and anxiety levels. METHODS: We conducted an extensive search for randomized clinical trials that examined stress, anxiety, and depression levels. The selected studies underwent a rigorous risk-of-bias assessment following the guidelines outlined in the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews. RESULTS: Our review encompassed findings from eight publications. Among them, two studies measuring cortisol levels revealed significant differences between the pre-test and post-test measurements within the intervention groups. In two studies that employed the Stress Response Inventory, a significant decrease in stress levels was observed within the intervention groups in contrast to the control groups. However, no significant differences were noted in studies that utilized the Restorative Outcome Scale. In the assessment of anxiety and depression levels, three studies employed the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule, while four studies utilized The Profile of Mood States scale; none of these studies demonstrated significant differences. CONCLUSIONS: The current body of evidence offers limited support for advocating nature-based therapeutic interventions as a primary approach to reducing stress, depression, and anxiety.

Nature-Based Interventions Targeting Elderly People's Health and Well-Being: An Evidence Map.

BACKGROUND: Healthy aging encompasses more than the absence of disease, emphasizing the preservation of functional abilities for enhanced well-being and quality of life. Nature-based interventions are scientifically proven contributors to healthy aging. OBJECTIVE: To develop an evidence map showcasing nature-based interventions targeting older individuals' health and well-being. METHODS: The evidence map was developed through critical analysis of systematic reviews and clinical trials utilizing the tools AMSTAR2 and CONSORT. A systematic search spanning the past decade was conducted across databases: Cochrane, SCOPUS, PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and LILACS. RESULTS: Twelve articles met the eligibility criteria. Nature-based interventions such as forest bathing, hiking, therapeutic gardens, virtual reality, and forest sounds were identified. Outcomes were categorized into physical aspects (cardiovascular and pulmonary; neuro-immuno-endocrinological) and mental/behavioral aspects. The final map integrated interventions, outcomes, and quality assessments. CONCLUSIONS: The survey highlights the positive impact of nature-based interventions on the health of the elderly. This study provides insights across various domains, fostering the development of programs and policies in management to promote healthy aging. Regarding healthcare, it encourages discourse among professionals regarding the integration of nature-based practices for equitable care in both individual and group settings. Furthermore, it underscores the need for research in the Southern Hemisphere, particularly in Brazil, where the study was conducted.

Removal of enrofloxacin using Eichhornia crassipes in microcosm wetlands.

The global consumption of antibiotics leads to their possible occurrence in the environment. In this context, nature-based solutions (NBS) can be used to sustainably manage and restore natural and modified ecosystems. In this work, we studied the efficiency of the NBS free-water surface wetlands (FWSWs) using Eichhornia crassipes in microcosm for enrofloxacin removal. We also explored the behavior of enrofloxacin in the system, its accumulation and distribution in plant tissues, the detoxification mechanisms, and the possible effects on plant growth. Enrofloxacin was initially taken up by E. crassipes (first 100 h). Notably, it accumulated in the sediment at the end of the experimental time. Removal rates above 94% were obtained in systems with sediment and sediment + E. crassipes. In addition, enrofloxacin was found in leaves, petioles, and roots (8.8-23.6 µg, 11-78.3 µg, and 10.2-70.7 µg, respectively). Furthermore, enrofloxacin, the main degradation product (ciprofloxacin), and other degradation products were quantified in the tissues and chlorosis was observed on days 5 and 9. Finally, the degradation products of enrofloxacin were analyzed, and four possible metabolic pathways of enrofloxacin in E. crassipes were described.

Genetic basis and repeatability for desiccation resistance in Drosophila melanogaster (Diptera: Drosophilidae).

Dehydration is a stress factor for organisms inhabiting natural habitats where water is scarce. Thus, it may be expected that species facing arid environments will develop mechanisms that maximize resistance to desiccation. Insects are excellent models for studying the effects of dehydration as well as the mechanisms and processes that prevent water loss since the effect of desiccation is greater due to the higher area/volume ratio than larger animals. Even though physiological and behavioral mechanisms to cope with desiccation are being understood, the genetic basis underlying the mechanisms related to variation in desiccation resistance and the context-dependent effect remain unsolved. Here we analyze the genetic bases of desiccation resistance in Drosophila melanogaster and identify candidate genes that underlie trait variation. Our quantitative genetic analysis of desiccation resistance revealed sexual dimorphism and extensive genetic variation. The phenotype-genotype association analyses (GWAS) identified 71 candidate genes responsible for total phenotypic variation in desiccation resistance. Half of these candidate genes were sex-specific suggesting that the genetic architecture underlying this adaptive trait differs between males and females. Moreover, the public availability of desiccation data analyzed on the same lines but in a different lab allows us to investigate the reliability and repeatability of results obtained in independent screens. Our survey indicates a pervasive micro-environment lab-dependent effect since we did not detect overlap in the sets of genes affecting desiccation resistance identified between labs.

A criação da Fundação Brasileira para a Conservação da Natureza / The creation of the Fundação Brasileira para a Conservação da Natureza

Abstract This study within the field of environmental history explores the scenario amid which the Fundação Brasileira para a Conservação da Natureza (Brazilian Foundation for Nature Conservation) was founded between 1958 and 1966; this important Brazilian non-governmental organization headquartered in Rio de Janeiro worked at the local, national, and international levels. Primary documentary sources were utilized, along with research of the related literature. The conclusions demonstrate the importance of non-governmental organizations predating this foundation, and the influence of conservationists on its establishment and current work.

Resumo Este estudo se insere no campo da história ambiental e tem o objetivo de compreender o cenário de criação, entre 1958 e 1966, da Fundação Brasileira para a Conservação da Natureza, importante organização não governamental ambientalista brasileira, com sede no Rio de Janeiro e atuação local, nacional e internacional. Para isso, utiliza fontes documentais primárias e pesquisa bibliográfica relacionada. As conclusões demonstraram a importância da existência de organizações não governamentais mais antigas que a fundação e a influência de conservacionistas sobre sua criação e sua atuação inicial.

"Éden Fluminense:" from a reforestation area on the Tijuca massif to a Europeanized public space in Rio de Janeiro in the latter half of the nineteenth century / "Éden Fluminense": de área de reflorestamento no maciço da Tijuca a espaço público europeizado do Rio de Janeiro na segunda metade do século XIX

Abstract This article reflects on the resignification of the Tijuca massif during the latter half of the nineteenth century after the planting of the Tijuca Forest, based on notions of the social uses of forests which were in line with Eurocentric imagery prizing nature. We utilized primary sources from the Brazilian Arquivo Nacional and Biblioteca Nacional, especially the Hemeroteca Digital online collection. The perception of these green areas shifted, with planted forests evolving from solely spaces for future forestry use to also serve as forest parks for recreation and contemplating nature, while still permitting appreciation of fine wood and landscapes and evoking the idea of nationalism and modernity.

Resumo O artigo reflexiona sobre o processo de ressignificação do maciço da Tijuca, na segunda metade do século XIX, após o projeto de plantio da Floresta da Tijuca, a partir da proposição de usos sociais das florestas, alinhando-se ao imaginário eurocêntrico de valorização da natureza. Vale-se de fontes primárias do Arquivo Nacional e da Biblioteca Nacional, especialmente da Hemeroteca Digital. Desvela a mudança na percepção dessas áreas verdes, onde a floresta plantada deixou de ser unicamente um espaço para uso silvicultural futuro, passando a ser também uma floresta-parque, para recreação e contemplação da natureza, sem excluir a apreciação das madeiras nobres e das paisagens, evocando a ideia de nacionalismo e modernidade.