Geological and geomorphological elements as management tools in protected areas open to public use: a case study of the Pedroso's Natural Municipal Park, Santo André, Brazil.

Covering an area of 842 hectares, the Pedroso’s Natural Municipal Park lies to the southeastern from the Santo Andre city centre. The region congregates a large variety of rocks, landforms and natural processes that are important to understand the evolution of our planet and its influence in the current landscape configuration. The catalogued sites illustrate the relationship between the metamorphic and tectonic structures, the effects of the weathering processes and the steep slopes on the soil erosion. Another field of practical application of those geological data is in the natural hazards prevention. With well-preserved outcroppings and easy access at the site, the park provides wide space for scientific research, educational activities and a fascinating place for leisure.