THE WISDOM OF THE WATERS, THE FIRMNESS OF THE LAND: GENDER PERSPECTIVES ABOUT PANTANAL BIOME CHANGING

Abstract

This study analyzes the perceptions of women from the Pantanal region (farmers, fisherwomen, and bait makers) regarding climate change in the sub-Pantanal areas of Aquidauana, Miranda, and Nhecolândia (MS). Through a qualitative approach, with a literature review and questionnaires administered to nine women, the results show that changes in climate and landscape, such as increased heat, altered water regimes, and decreased biodiversity, are clearly perceived and already impact their ways of life. Intersectional analysis demonstrates that these effects disproportionately affect women, intensifying their workload, reducing their economic autonomy, and threatening traditional knowledge. It concludes that the environmental crisis deepens gender inequalities, requiring public policies that adopt an intersectional perspective, recognize women's knowledge, and guarantee their active participation in environmental governance to build climate justice in the Pantanal.