The Lobster Festival in São Fidélis / RJ

Sociocultural Development and Environmental Impacts

Abstract

This article proposes a critical analysis of the traditional Lobster Festival, held in the municipality of São Fidélis, in the state of Rio de Janeiro, addressing it as an expression of belonging and identity construction of the local community. The investigation is based on the notion of memory and the affective preservation of current generations, as noted by Nora (1993). The research examines the role of the festival in the socioeconomic development of the region, while also problematizing the exploitation of freshwater lobster (Macrobrachium carcinus). Based on a qualitative approach, as outlined by Marconi and Lakatos (2011), the study uses as sources: scientific journals, newspaper reports from the time, environmental and cultural legislation, as well as interviews with participants and collaborators of the event. The results reveal that the Lobster Festival constitutes an important symbol of the cultural identity and collective memory of Fidelis, but it is also embedded in a context of intensive exploitation, which has resulted in significant socio-environmental impacts, such as the reduction of natural populations of the species. Given this scenario, even if the festival no longer takes place, the study reiterates the urgency of implementing sustainable strategies that consider both the appreciation of cultural heritage and traditional practices, as well as the preservation of the natural resources used. It is worth noting that this article is the result of research funded by the Pescarte Environmental Education Project (PEA), a mitigation measure required by the Federal Environmental Licensing, conducted by IBAMA.