The Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC) announces the launch of an innovative guide, entitled “Alternatives”, which offers an ecological approach to landscaping in Santa Catarina. This guide, created by recent graduate Renato Fiador de Lima as part of his Course Completion Work (TCC), will be officially launched on February 28th, during an event at the Tourism and Environment Commission of the Legislative Assembly of Santa Catarina. Catarina (Alesc). The presentation will be in Alesc’s Committee Meeting Room nº 02, from 1pm to 2pm, and will also be broadcast live on Alesc’s YouTube channel, offering a unique opportunity for interested parties from all over the world.
Guided by Michele de Sá Dechoum, professor in the Ecology and Zoology department at UFSC and leader of the Laboratory of Ecology of Biological Invasions, Management and Conservation (LEIMAC), Lima’s work focuses on promoting the use of native species from the restinga and coastal forest of Santa Catarina in landscaping, proposing sustainable alternatives to commonly used invasive exotic plants. The study was inspired by the need to avoid biological invasions and preserve local biodiversity, standing out for its provocative title: “Avoiding biological invasions: investigation of the potential of native plants to replace invasive exotic plants for ornamental purposes”.
The methodology used in selecting plants for the guide included a detailed analysis of the National Database of Invasive Exotic Species, managed by the Hórus Institute for Development and Environmental Conservation. The team first considered native species from the same botanical family as the invaders, looking for similarities in form and function. Subsequently, a dialogue with landscapers and consultation of technical materials allowed the list of potential substitutes to be expanded.
Michele de Sá Dechoum highlights the practical and ecological value of the guide, highlighting its relevance for those seeking to integrate gardens into the natural landscape and contribute to the conservation of biodiversity. She also emphasizes the inspiring role that the guide can play for landscapers and professionals in the ornamental plant production sector, encouraging the adoption of more sustainable and environmentally responsible practices in landscaping.
With the release of this guide, UFSC not only strengthens its commitment to environmental research and education, but also offers a valuable tool for the ecological transformation of urban and natural spaces in Santa Catarina and beyond.
To follow the launch live, access here.
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